Minimally invasive skin sampling and transcriptome analysis using microneedles for skin type biomarker research

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive skin sampling is used in various fields. In this study, we examined whether it was possible to obtain skin specimens using biocompatible microneedles composed of sodium hyaluronate and performed transcriptome analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty‐three subjects with different skin conditions, such as skin aging, skin hydration, skin pigmentation, oily skin and sensitive skin, were recruited. Skin types were evaluated based on age, non‐invasive measurement devices, 10% lactic acid stinging test and visual assessment; the skin specimens were sampled from the face using microneedles. Total RNA was extracted, and microarray was performed. Correlations between various biomarkers and skin condition parameters were analysed. RESULTS: Several skin‐type biomarkers are correlated with age, non‐invasive device measurements, LAST score and visual assessment of acne lesions. Representatively, COL1A1 (Collagen type 1 alpha 1 chain), FN1 (Fibronectin 1) and PINK1 (PTEN‐induced putative kinase protein 1) for skin aging, FLG (Filaggrin), KLF4 (Kruppel‐like factor 4) and LOR (Loricrin) for skin hydration, GPNMB (Glycoprotein non‐metastatic melanoma protein B), MLANA (Melan‐A) and TYR (Tyrosinase) for skin pigmentation, IGF1 ( insulin‐like growth factor‐1), MPZL3 (Myelin protein zero like 3) and AQP3 (Aquaporin 3) for oily skin and PGF (placental growth factor), CYR61 (cysteine‐rich angiogenic inducer 61), RBP4 (retinol‐binding protein 4), TAC1 (Tachykinin precursor 1), CAMP (Cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide), MMP9 (Matrix metallopeptidase 9), MMP3 , MMP12 and CCR1 (C‐C motif chemokine receptor 1) for sensitive skin. CONCLUSION: Microneedle skin sampling is a new and minimally invasive option for transcriptome analysis of human skin and can be applied for diagnosis and treatment efficacy evaluation, as well as skin type classification.