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Tokyo — Transplanted hair follicles derived from
adult stem cells have demonstrated normal hair cycles in bald mice,
according to a recent study published in Nature Communications.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science bioengineered hair follicle germ cells
from adult epithelial stem cells and dermal papilla cells. They then
implanted the bioengineered cells into the skin of bald mice, resulting
in normal hair cycles and other signs of normal function, including
piloerection, or goosebumps, Medical News Today reports. Along with
normal functioning, the implanted hair follicles also developed the
correct structures and made the right connections with surrounding
tissue, according to the report.
“Our findings suggest that the
transplantation of a bioengineered hair follicle germ can restore
natural hair function and re-establish the cooperation between the
follicle and the surrounding recipient muscles and nerve fibers,” the
authors wrote. “Thus, the transplantation of bioengineered hair
follicle germ is potentially applicable to the future surgical
treatment of alopecia.”
Aside from raising hopes of a cure for
baldness, the study is a significant advance toward next-generation
organ replacement regenerative therapies, which will enable the
replacement of damaged organs, according to the report. Notably, the
study used adult stem cells, rather than embryonic, and it also marked
the first time bioengineered follicles were fully functional and
integrated into surrounding tissue, according to the report.
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