Iranian Scientists Develop First Fully Functional Human Skin in Laboratory

Iranian Scientists Develop First Fully Functional Human Skin in Laboratory
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Two Iranian researchers at the University of Queensland have successfully developed the first fully functional human skin in a laboratory setting, a breakthrough that could transform skin grafting, wound treatment, and dermatological research, Shia Waves Persian reported citing NZ Doctor.

The team at the Fraser Institute, led by Dr. Abbas Shafiei and Professor Kiarash Khosrotehrani, used human stem cells to create skin with natural layers, hair follicles, pigmentation, nerve structures, and independent blood circulation—the most realistic lab-grown human skin model to date.

“This lab-grown skin allows detailed study of skin diseases, testing of new therapies, and advances in regenerative medicine,” Dr. Shafiei explained. The process involved reprogramming human skin cells into stem cells, growing them into skin organoids, and integrating micro-blood vessels to mimic natural blood flow.

Professor Khosrotehrani called the project a “true revolution in regenerative medicine,” highlighting its potential to improve skin grafting for burns and deep wounds, while reducing infection risk. He noted it could also advance treatment of chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and scleroderma.

The project, conducted with support from Australian research institutions including Metro North Health, has drawn attention from the international scientific community. Experts believe lab-grown human skin could open new avenues in precision medicine, tissue transplantation, and personalized therapies.

The achievement underscores the global scientific contributions of Iranian researchers in cutting-edge biomedical fields.