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How skin is wired for touch

Researchers have discovered that each type of hair follicle works like a distinct sensory organ, tuned to register different types of touches. This network of neurons allows us to perceive important differences in our surroundings.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateDec 22, 2011

Going bald without hair follicle progenitors

A study by George Cotsarelis at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that balding men retain hair follicle stem cells but lack CD200-rich and CD34-positive progenitor cells. This defect is linked to a transition problem for stem cells, providing potential new therapeutic targets for AGA treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 2011

Getting to the roots of hair loss

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a gene responsible for Hypotrichosis simplex, a rare hereditary form of hair loss. The study's findings offer new hope for developing targeted therapies for various forms of hair loss.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 24, 2008

Hirsute-s you, Sir!

Researchers identified three proteins that determine an individual's hair pattern during embryonic development. They also found that hyperactivating one of these proteins in mice led to abnormal fur growth, providing insights into male-pattern baldness and ectodermal dysplasia.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2006

Promoting hair growth

Researchers find that stabilizing a protein called â-catenin drives hair follicle development by reducing the threshold for stem cell activation. Key genes controlling this process are identified, providing new insights into promoting hair growth.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 15, 2005

New Hair in 15 Days

Scientists at the University of Michigan Medical School have discovered that ß-catenin can induce new hair growth in adult hair follicles. The study found that brief activation of ß-catenin in telogen-phase hair follicles is sufficient to initiate the anagen phase, leading to new hair growth within 15 days.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateMay 14, 2003