Stem cells and hair growth

The researchers found that signals from adipose precursor cells in mice drive the activation of follicular stem cells and immature adipocytes are needed for hair follicle regeneration. Men with male pattern baldness have follicular stem cells that no longer have the ability to drive regrowth because they are not receiving the right signals. This study showed that immature adipocytes express platelet-derived growth factor to promote hair regeneration. Adipocyte precursor cells could clinically alter epithelial stem cell activity.
Festa E, Fretz J, Berry R. Cell 2011; 146: 761-71.

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