Assessing Pet Care Safety with an in vitro Canine Skin Model

This study aimed to develop an in vitro reconstructed canine epidermis (RCE) model to assess the safety and local tolerance of pet care ingredients, addressing the lack of standardized guidelines for canines. The model utilized a 10-day-old RCE with a complete histological structure, evaluating cellular viability via MTT assay, barrier integrity through Transepithelial Electrical Resistance (TEER), and inflammatory responses via Interleukin-8 (IL-8) release. Protocol optimization revealed that a 12-hour contact time was more suitable than 16 hours to maintain tissue integrity while remaining sensitive to irritants like Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS). Key findings demonstrated that TEER and IL-8 release were effective complementary markers, with TEER providing superior discriminatory capacity for barrier assessment compared to traditional methods. Benchmarks showed non-cytotoxic results and low irritation potential, aligning with expected safety margins. The study concludes that the RCE model is a promising tool for screening ingredients, ensuring safety for dogs.