Novel Technologies for Exploring the Skin–Brain Axis

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Authors: Dahiana Mojena Medina, Francesca Santoro
Cited by: 2
References: 206

Abstract

ABSTRACT The skin–brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the cutaneous physiology and the central nervous system. Dysregulation of this axis contributes to a wide range of dermatological and neurocutaneous disorders, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, chronic wounds, pruritus, and alopecia, which together impose a substantial medical, psychological, and socioeconomic burden. Despite increasing recognition of its biological and clinical significance, progress in this field has been limited by the absence of experimental approaches capable of resolving the multimodal signals that characterize skin–neural interactions. In this Review, we examine recent advances in microscale and nanoscale sensing technologies and bioelectronic interfaces, including high‐density microelectrode arrays, impedance and transepithelial resistance monitoring, organic electrochemical transistors, electrochemical biosensors, ion‐selective electrodes, acoustic devices, and emerging quantum sensors. We discuss how these platforms can be integrated into advanced skin models and organ‐on‐chip systems to enable real‐time, multiplexed readouts of neuronal activity, barrier dynamics, and neuroimmune signaling. Finally, we highlight key engineering and translational challenges, such as biofouling, sensor drift, mechanical mismatch, and long‐term stability, and outline strategies to address them, providing guidance for the development of next‐generation sensor‐integrated platforms to study the skin–brain axis.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials Advancements in Transdermal Drug Delivery Neuroscience and Neural Engineering

Publication details

Journal / source
Advanced Sensor Research
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
5
Issue
2
Publication date
1 February 2026
Language
EN