ISIS Neutron and Muon Source Data Journal
This is a page describing data taken during an experiment at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source. Information about the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source can be found at https://www.isis.stfc.ac.uk.
Characterisation of lipid multilayers mimicking the outer skin layers
Abstract: The skin provides a crucial protective barrier against environmental and biological threats, with its outermost layer the stratum corneum (SC) governing water balance and molecular diffusion. The SC lipid matrix, composed primarily of ceramides (CER), free fatty acids (FFAs), and cholesterol (CHOL), plays a central role in topical and transdermal delivery. However, due to its chemical complexity and the scarcity of phospholipids, understanding diffusion across this multilamellar structure remains challenging. In collaboration with Arterra Bioscience (Italy), we aim to develop advanced biomimetic skin models to study diffusion and penetration mechanisms of active compounds using neutron reflectometry (NR). Building on preliminary results obtained on SURF, we will optimise a Langmuir Blodgett/Langmuir Schaefer (LB LS) deposition protocol to form controlled CER FFA CHOL multilayers and compare these to models prepared via spin- and spray-coating. Subsequently, we will monitor the diffusion of a plant-derived polypeptide within these systems using contrast variation and time-resolved NR.
Principal Investigator: Professor Carla Andreani
Experimenter: Professor Debora Berti
Experimenter: Professor Alessandro Cianchi
Local Contact: Dr Mario Campana
Experimenter: Professor Triestino Minniti
Experimenter: Dr Assunta Tortora
Experimenter: Professor Massimo Bonini
Experimenter: Dr Adriana De Lucia
DOI: 10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610668
ISIS Experiment Number: RB2610668
| Part DOI | Instrument | Public release date | Download Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610668-1 | OFFSPEC | 23 October 2029 | Download |
Publisher: STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source
Data format: RAW/Nexus
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Data Citation
The recommended format for citing this dataset in a research
publication is as:
[author], [date], [title], [publisher],
[doi]
For Example:
Professor Carla Andreani et al; (2026): Characterisation of lipid multilayers mimicking the outer skin layers, STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, https://doi.org/10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610668
Data is released under the CC-BY-4.0 license.
