Activin B Stimulates Mouse Vibrissae Growth and Regulates Cell Proliferation and Cell Cycle Progression of Hair Matrix Cells Through ERK Signaling

The study investigated the effects of Activin B on hair growth and cell proliferation in mouse vibrissae and human hair germinal matrix cells. Using 10 male C57BL/6 mice, the researchers found that Activin B at 10 ng/mL significantly promoted vibrissae follicle growth and hair matrix cell proliferation both in vivo and in vitro. This was mediated through the ERK signaling pathway, particularly the ERK-Elk1 and ERK-Cyclin D1 pathways, facilitating the transition of hair matrix cells from the G0/G1 phase to the S phase of the cell cycle. The findings suggested that Activin B could enhance hair growth by regulating cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for hair loss treatments.