During my internship at Cutiss, I worked with a wide array of equipment and engaged in various processes critical to creating DeNovo Skin, the bioengineered skin graft developed for burn victims. The journey began with the meticulous process of DeNovo Skin harvesting, where I learned the delicate art of isolating and cultivating skin cells essential for the graft. This involved precise manipulation of the skin to ensure it would be viable for further processing. Medium changes for Keratinocytes (KC) and DeNovo Skin (DS) were a routine part of my responsibilities. These changes were vital, as the medium served as the lifeblood for the cells, providing the essential nutrients required for their growth and maintenance. One of the most fascinating aspects of my internship was observing melanocytes and KC under the microscope. This allowed me to gain an intimate understanding of their functions, roles, and potential dangers in the context of skin biology. Manipulating DeNovo Skin without cells was another facet of my work, involving careful handling to ensure the integrity of the graft. I also delved into the P63 study, which provided valuable insights into the characteristics and behavior of skin cells. Photographing DeNovo Skin allowed me to document and analyze the graft's progress over time, providing valuable data for further research. Seeding KC was a critical step in the bioengineering process, where I learned how to carefully introduce these cells into the graft. Understanding and operating various pieces of equipment, including the incubator, automatic pipette, and water bath, became second nature as I immersed myself in the laboratory environment.

My exploration extended to the intricate world of skin biology, where I delved into the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis layers, understanding their individual roles in skin function. Intriguingly, I studied melanocytes in-depth, including their functions and the potential dangers they posed in skin biology. Analyzing histo data, including markers like P16 and P63, and exploring the absence of fibroblasts in specific contexts, such as mouse models, were crucial aspects of my internship. Beyond the laboratory work, I delved into the complexities of skin conditions and injuries, including vitiligo and various types of scars like hypo and hyperpigmented scars, keloids, and immature versus mature scars. I also explored techniques like dermabrasion, skin grafts, and microneedling as methods to restore skin pigmentation.

Additionally, I ventured into the realm of psychology, investigating the psychological effects of skin diseases such as psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, and injuries like burns. The stigma associated with these conditions and the impact on individuals' mental well-being were topics I explored with great interest. My internship at Cutiss provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific processes involved in bioengineering skin grafts and the profound impact of these advancements on individuals' lives, driving my dedication to making a meaningful contribution to this field.