Hair Follicle Bulb Developed as 3D Scaffold-Free Microtissue

    E Caviola, Barbara De Servi, Maria Antonia Meloni
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    Studysummary This study observed that a 3D culture model of hair follicle cells showed an anagen-like phase between days 3 to 6 and transitioned to a catagen-like phase by day 7, highlighting cell differentiation and structural development over time.
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    The study detailed the creation of a 3D scaffold-free microtissue, termed "proto-follicle," by co-culturing dermal papilla cells with outer root sheath keratinocytes using hanging drop technology. This model was designed to replicate the structure and function of a natural hair follicle. The researchers employed various methods such as viability assays, histological staining, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and qRT-PCR to characterize the proto-follicle. Their findings revealed that the microtissue entered an anagen-like growth phase between 3 and 6 days and transitioned to a catagen-like phase from day 7 to 14. The cell types involved retained their specific characteristics and developed in a time-dependent manner, indicating that this model could be a valuable tool for investigating hair follicle biology and exploring new avenues for hair loss treatment.
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