Originally Published EMDM
September 2003
Technology News
Skin-Harvesting Tape Provides Alternative to Biopsy |
| A noninvasive skin-harvesting tape captures cells from which measurable RNA can be extracted. |
A well-known method in dermatology, tape harvesting has been used mainly to recover skin proteins and small cell molecules. Adhesives Research Inc. (Glen Rock, PA, USA) and DermTech International (San Diego, CA, USA) have developed a multipurpose medical-grade adhesive tape for use in this noninvasive technique. The product’s applications include monitoring epidermal health in circumstances where a biopsy procedure would be impractical.
Measurable RNA can be extracted from recovered nucleic acids found in skin cells. In this technique, known as epidermal genetic information retrieval, skin cells are captured from the epidermis by means of a skin-harvesting tape. Biocompatible with a number of skin types, the tape is inert to cellular materials and the reagents associated with skin-harvesting applications.
The tape features a blend of high-tack, high-peel, and cohesive-strength properties. It forms an immediate bond with the skin. The tape removes enough stratum corneum for analysis in just one to four applications. Other commercial tapes can require up to 25 attempts, according to Adhesives Research. The tape is pain-free and leaves no visible marks.
Laura Angela Bagnetto
Copyright ©2003 European Medical Device Manufacturer
