Targeted Knockout of Beta-Catenin in Adult Melanocyte Stem Cells Using a Mouse Line, Dct::CreERT2, Results in Disrupted Stem Cell Renewal and Pigmentation Defects

The study used a Dct::CreERT2 transgenic mouse model to explore the role of β-catenin in melanocyte stem cell (McSC) renewal and pigmentation. Knocking out β-catenin in McSCs resulted in disrupted stem cell renewal and pigmentation defects, leading to permanent hair whitening in adult mice. This demonstrated that β-catenin was essential for McSC renewal and the production of mature melanocytes. The findings underscored the importance of β-catenin in maintaining McSC function and pigmentation, with potential implications for understanding pigmentation disorders and developing therapeutic strategies.