Epidermal melanocyte culture formulations
US6943024B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 24, 2003 |
| Grant date | Sep 13, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 24, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC12N2501/15
- WIPO fieldPharmaceuticals
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention provides methods and compositions for providing graft recipients with epidermal melanocytes. Specifically, the methods and compositions of the invention provide for populations of epidermal melanocytes that may be isolated from a patient and cultured in vitro to generate a proliferating population of epidermal melanocytes that exhibit growth, migration and melanin production. The invention is based on the discovery of a culture medium composed of natural components, for culturing epidermal melanocytes that exhibit increased proliferative capacity, migratory behaviors and melanin production. The invention provides novel in vitro methods for culturing epidermal melanocytes, including those isolated from the skin of a healthy subject, to generate a proliferating population of epidermal melanocytes. The methods and compositions of the invention may be used for transplantation to treat patients having hypopigmentation or depigmentation skin disorders.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.