At Creative Biolabs, we are at the forefront of skin microbiome research, offering comprehensive preclinical study services for the topical application of probiotics in animal models. As the understanding of the skin's intricate microbial ecosystem deepens, so does the potential for novel dermatological and cosmetic interventions. Our dedicated team of experts provides robust, scientifically rigorous studies to help you evaluate the efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action of your topical probiotic formulations, accelerating your path from discovery to market. Topical probiotics, which involve the direct application of beneficial live microorganisms or their metabolites to the skin, are emerging as a promising strategy to restore microbial balance and promote skin health. By leveraging our expertise in animal models, we provide a controlled and relevant environment to investigate how these formulations interact with the skin's microbiota and influence desired outcomes. Request a quote
Overview: The Skin Microbiome and Topical Probiotics
The skin, our body's largest organ, harbors a diverse community of microorganisms known as the skin microbiome. This complex ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health, barrier function, and immune regulation. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the skin microbiome, is increasingly linked to various dermatological conditions, including atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and impaired wound healing.
Probiotic Topical Application Research Services in Animal Models
Workflow
Service Details
Animal Models
Formulation Services
Analysis
Samples
Deliverables
Turnaround Time
Animal Models
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Species Selection: Rodent models (e.g., mice, rats) are commonly used, and we can advise on the most appropriate strain and species based on your research objectives and the specific skin condition being investigated.
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Disease Induction Models: We establish and validate various preclinical models mimicking human skin conditions, such as:
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Atopic Dermatitis (AD) Models: Inducing AD-like symptoms (e.g., itching, erythema, scaling) through various methods (e.g., topical application of allergens, genetic models).
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Acne Models: Inducing inflammatory acne lesions.
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Psoriasis Models: Utilizing models that mimic psoriatic plaques.
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Wound Healing Models: Assessing the impact of probiotics on acute and chronic wound closure, re-epithelialization, and scar formation (e.g., excisional wounds, burn wounds).
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Skin Barrier Dysfunction Models: Evaluating the effect on TEWL, hydration, and lipid profiles.
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Aging Skin Models: Assessing probiotic impact on parameters related to skin aging.
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Custom Model Development: We can develop bespoke animal models tailored to your specific research needs.
Probiotic Formulation & Application
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Formulation Support: Guidance on appropriate excipients and carriers for topical delivery (creams, lotions, gels, sprays, patches).
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Application Methods: Standardized topical application protocols (e.g., direct application, patch application, occlusive dressing).
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Dosing Regimen Optimization: Determination of optimal probiotic concentration, frequency, and duration of application.
Laboratory Analysis
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In-Life Animal Studies
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Clinical Scoring: Regular assessment of dermatological parameters (e.g., erythema, edema, excoriation, scaling, lesion severity) using validated scoring systems.
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Physiological Measurements
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Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL): Barrier function assessment using a TEWL meter.
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Skin Hydration: Corneometer measurements.
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Skin pH: pH meter measurements.
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Erythema and Melanin Index: Mexameter measurements.
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Skin Thickness: Caliper measurements.
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Sebum Production: Sebumeter measurements.
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Imaging: High-resolution photography, dermoscopy, and in vivo imaging techniques (e.g., confocal microscopy, OCT) for visual documentation and quantitative analysis of skin changes.
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Microbiome Analysis
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Fungal ITS Sequencing: For mycobiome analysis.
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Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing: For comprehensive functional and taxonomic insights into the entire microbial community (bacteria, fungi, viruses).
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Histopathological & Immunological Assessments
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Histopathology: H&E staining for assessment of epidermal thickness, inflammatory cell infiltration, mast cell degranulation, and collagen organization.
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Immunohistochemistry (IHC) & Immunofluorescence (IF): Staining for key immune markers, inflammatory cytokines, and tight junction proteins.
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ELISA/ Multiplex Assays: Quantification of cytokine/chemokine levels in skin homogenates or serum.
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Metabolomics
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Analysis of skin metabolites to understand the biochemical impact of probiotic application.
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Safety Assessment
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Evaluation of local skin irritation, systemic toxicity (if applicable), and adverse reactions.
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Body weight monitoring, organ weight, and histopathology of major organs.
Sample Information
To initiate a study, we require the following information regarding your probiotic product:
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Probiotic Strain(s): Species and strain designation.
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Viability & Concentration: Information on colony-forming units (CFUs) per gram/mL of the product.
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Formulation: Details of the excipients, carrier, and overall composition of the topical product.
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Storage Conditions: Recommended storage temperature and stability data.
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Safety Data: Any existing in vitro or in vivo safety data.
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Mechanism of Action Hypothesis: Your proposed mechanism by which the probiotic is expected to exert its beneficial effects.
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Desired Endpoints: Specific parameters you wish to evaluate (e.g., reduction in inflammation, improved barrier function, microbiome shifts).
Deliverables
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Deliverable Components
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Content Specifications
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Detailed Final Study Report
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Introduction and Study Objectives, Materials and Methods, Results.
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Raw Data
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All raw data files from analytical instruments (e.g., sequencing reads, image files, instrument output).
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High-Resolution Images
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Histopathological images, clinical photographs, and other relevant visual documentation.
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Bioinformatics Reports
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For microbiome studies, including alpha and beta diversity metrics, taxonomic summaries, and differential abundance analysis.
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Turnaround Time
The typical turnaround time for a probiotic topical application study varies depending on the complexity of the study design, the duration of the in-life phase, and the number and type of analytical endpoints. However, a general estimate is 8-16 weeks to the delivery of the final report. We will provide a more precise timeline during the initial consultation.
Contact Us Today for a Quote
Advantages of Partnering with Creative Biolabs
Expertise in Dermatology & Microbiome Research
Our team comprises experienced scientists and veterinarians with deep knowledge in skin biology, immunology, microbiology, and animal model development.
Customized Study Design
We work closely with you to design a study that precisely meets your research goals and budget.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Our laboratories and analytical platforms are equipped with the latest technology to ensure high-quality data generation.
Comprehensive Analytical Capabilities
From in-life assessments to advanced omics technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics), we offer a full spectrum of analytical services under one roof.
Robust Quality Control
We adhere to the highest ethical and scientific standards, with rigorous quality control measures at every stage of the study.
Accelerated Development
Our efficient workflow and expertise help you obtain critical data quickly, accelerating your product's journey from research to market.
Confidentiality and IP Protection
We prioritize the confidentiality of your proprietary information and intellectual property.
Mechanism of Action: How Topical Probiotics Work
Topical probiotics exert their beneficial effects through several proposed mechanisms, which our studies aim to elucidate:
Beneficial probiotic strains can compete with pathogenic microorganisms for nutrients and adhesion sites on the skin, thereby inhibiting the growth and colonization of harmful bacteria.
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Antimicrobial Peptide Production
Some probiotics produce antimicrobial compounds (e.g., bacteriocins) that directly inhibit the growth of undesirable skin pathogens.
Probiotics can interact with skin immune cells, influencing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, strengthening the skin barrier, and modulating local immune responses to reduce inflammation and hypersensitivity.
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Barrier Function Enhancement
Certain probiotic strains can promote the synthesis of ceramides and other lipids, crucial components of the skin barrier, leading to improved hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Probiotics can produce beneficial metabolites (e.g., short-chain fatty acids) that influence skin cell function, pH, and overall skin health.
Applications
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Cosmeceutical Companies: Developing skincare products for anti-aging, hydration, redness reduction, and overall skin health.
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Dermatological Pharmaceutical Companies: Investigating novel therapies for chronic skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, and rosacea.
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Wound Care Companies: Exploring probiotic-based solutions for improved wound healing and infection prevention.
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Nutraceutical Companies: Expanding product lines into topical applications.
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Biotechnology Companies: Discovering and validating new probiotic strains with dermatological benefits.
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Academic Researchers: Supporting fundamental research into the skin microbiome and probiotic mechanisms.
Ready to Advance Your Probiotic Research? Contact us today to discuss your specific research needs and receive a customized proposal. Our expert team is ready to partner with you to unlock the full potential of topical probiotics for skin health.
FAQs
What types of probiotics can you test?
We can test a wide range of probiotic strains, including bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) and yeasts (e.g., Saccharomyces boulardii). We also accommodate studies on prebiotics, postbiotics, and synbiotics.
How do you ensure the viability of probiotics during topical application?
We work closely with clients on formulation considerations and employ standardized application protocols to maximize the viability of the probiotic strains on the skin surface throughout the study duration. We can also incorporate assays to confirm viability on the skin.
Can I provide my animal model or specific disease induction method?
Yes, we are flexible and can incorporate your preferred animal models or disease induction protocols, provided they meet our ethical and scientific standards.
Do you offer in vitro screening services as well?
Yes, we can integrate in vitro studies (e.g., cytotoxicity assays, antimicrobial activity, barrier function assays on cell lines, immune modulation on primary cells) as part of a comprehensive research program to inform in vivo studies.
