Researchers Discover Source of Hair Regeneration
September 2011
A type of stem cell associated with the development of new fat
cells, called adipose precursor cells, was necessary to regenerate
hair in mouse models
Earlier this year, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania
School of Medicine found that the depletion of a certain stem cell
(thought to be a progenitor cell) may determine male pattern
baldness. Now, Yale scientists have made a new discovery that could
yield new treatments for baldness.
Valerie Horsley, study leader and assistant professor of molecular,
cellular and developmental biology at Yale, and a team of Yale
researchers, have identified the source of signals that prompt hair
growth.
Those with male pattern baldness still have stem cells in follicle
roots, but these cells are unable to spur hair regeneration. The
stem cells require signals from inside the skin in order to grow
hair, but the source of these signals has been unknown to scientists
until now.
Horsley and her team found the source of hair regeneration signals
by observing hair during periods of growth and during its death.
When hair is growing, the layer of fat in the scalp expands in a
process called adipogenesis. When the hair dies, this layer of fat
shrinks.
Through these observations, the team discovered that a type of stem
cell associated with the development of new fat cells, called
adipose precursor cells, was necessary to regenerate hair in mouse
models.
In addition, these cells create molecules called platelet derived
growth factors (PDGF), which is also required for hair growth.
"If we can get these fat cells in the skin to talk to the dormant
stem cells at the base of hair follicles, we might be able to get
hair to grow again," said Horsley.
The team plans to look for other signals created by adipose
precursor stem cells, which could lead to a better understanding of
hair regeneration, and eventually, more precise treatments.
Source
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