Development of a plasma-polymerized surface suitable for the transplantation of keratinocyte-melanocyte cocultures for patients with vitiligo

The purpose of this study was to develop a convenient methodology for the coculture of autologous melanocytes and keratinocytes for grafting of patients with vitiligo. While grafting of pure melanocytes may achieve repigmentation, the inclusion of keratinocytes ensures rapid reepithelialization. Previously we have used confluent sheets of keratinocytes (with melanocytes present) to transfer cells. However, we found that as the keratinocyte density increased, melanocyte number and function were downregulated. Accordingly in this study we explored combinations of three culture surfaces and three media, seeking to achieve subconfluent culture of primary keratinocytes with a reasonable density of melanocytes, using cells immediately after isolation from skin. For this in vitro study, the surfaces studied were uncoated glass coverslips, and glass coverslips coated with collagen I or a nitrogen-containing plasma polymer. The results show that both the substrate surface and the medium composition influence the proliferation and survival of melanocytes. Keratinocytes and melanocytes could be successfully cocultured on a chemically defined plasma polymer substrate using a serum-free medium.