microbiopsy punch may aid molecular profiling in dermatology

According to a recent publication, Skin 2.0: How Cutaneous Digital Twins Could Reshape Dermatology in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, the Harpera™ Microbiopsy Punch may present researchers with a significant advantage in conducting skin biopsies to develop "cutaneous digital twins." This innovation is poised to enhance molecular profiling and support the creation of digital models for studying drug and cosmetic permeability on the skin, fostering personalized dermatology treatments.

understanding "digital twin" technology

Digital twin technology offers a virtual model of physical objects or systems, such as human skin, which can be used to simulate disease outcomes or treatment effects. This digital representation, akin to utilizing biomarkers in therapeutic drug monitoring, aids in tailoring interventions based on individual health profiles and predicting responses to various treatments. 

integrating Harpera in dermatological specimen collection

Utilizing the minimally invasive Harpera Microbiopsy Punch, researchers can obtain precise skin samples with minimal discomfort, promoting a suture-free and scarless biopsy experience. Biopsies performed with the Harpera tool have demonstrated beneficial results in crafting digital twins that accurately mirror patient-specific skin attributes. These twins can then be used in virtual clinical trials, accelerating research while reducing traditional trial timelines and costs.

The study co-authors, Clare A. Primiero, Monika Janda, and H. Peter Soyer at the University of Queensland, Australia, described how the cutaneous digital twin and other digital markers are created, using a combination of collected biological specimens, generated digital markers and records, a patient-collected medical history, and health data from "wearables" such as smartwatches and other health monitoring technologies. 

the potential precedence of microbiopsy in dermatological research 

The application of Harpera in creating cutaneous digital twins could significantly reshape dermatological practices by allowing for more frequent and less invasive monitoring of skin health. This method not only has implications for the cosmetic industry and pharmaceutical research & development but also offers potential benefits for public health surveillance and personalized treatment plans in dermatology.

The researchers at the University of Queensland are pioneering this approach, integrating data from biological samples and digital health technologies to refine patient care models. Their work underscores the potential of combining innovative sampling tools like Harpera with cutting-edge digital health strategies to advance medical research and patient outcomes.

This is curated content. For more details about this important study, please read the original article https://www.jidonline.org/article/S0022-202X(24)01973-0/fulltext 

Source citation:
Skin 2.0: How Cutaneous Digital Twins Could Reshape Dermatology
Author: Clare A. Primiero, Monika Janda, H. Peter Soyer
Publication: Journal of Investigative Dermatology
Publisher: Elsevier
Date: Available online 2 September 2024
© 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier, Inc. on behalf of the Society for Investigative Dermatology.

Image Credits: Trajan Scientific and Medical