Establishment and Characterization of a Canine Keratinocyte Organoid Culture System

The study established a 3D in vitro culture system of canine keratinocyte organoids to investigate skin diseases in dogs, particularly those affecting the interfollicular epidermis (IFE) and hair follicles (HF). Skin biopsies from euthanized dogs were used to derive cells, which were then grown in Matrigel. The organoids developed into a basal IFE-like cell type, showing high levels of keratins 5 and 14, but lacked key HF stem cell markers. The study concluded that while the system provided a basis for exploring epidermal function and cutaneous disorders, additional growth factors or co-culture with dermal papilla would be necessary to induce HF signatures or hair growth.