Epidermal and dermal equivalents

Abstract

The present invention relates to the treatment of skin defects by organotypically-cultured autologous keratinocytes isolated from the outer root sheath of anagen or growing hair. Methods for primary, as well as subsequent organotypic cultures (i.e., epidermal equivalents) in fully-defined media supplemented by autologous human serum and substances isolated form blood components, with minimal allogeneic biological supplements, are disclosed herein. Techniques to prepare epidermal equivalents for transplantation by use of a biocompatible glue are also disclosed herein.

1 - 71 . (canceled) 
     
     
         72 . A method for treating a skin defect comprising applying an epidermal skin equivalent comprising keratinocyte precursor cells to the skin defect. 
     
     
         73 . A kit comprising an epidermal equivalent. 
     
     
         74 . A feeder cell system for producing keratinocyte precursor cells comprising a hair follicle, feeder cells, and a microporous insert membrane.