BMP4 Regulates Differentiation of Nestin-Positive Stem Cells Into Melanocytes
January 2025
in “
Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences
”
BMP4 nestin-positive stem cells melanocytes mouse hair follicle organoids melanin hair bulbs hair follicle growth hair pigmentation hair graying vitiligo melanocyte stem cells hair follicle stem cells hair follicle homeostasis Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 mHFOs melanin production pigmentation regenerative therapies
TLDR BMP4 helps stem cells turn into pigment-producing cells, affecting hair color and growth.
The study investigates the role of Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 (BMP4) in the differentiation of nestin-positive stem cells into melanocytes using mouse hair follicle organoids (mHFOs). BMP4 is identified as a key regulator that significantly increases melanin production and pigmentation in hair bulbs, influencing hair follicle growth and pigmentation. This suggests BMP4's potential in developing regenerative therapies for conditions like hair graying and vitiligo. The mHFO model effectively mimics hair follicle and melanocyte interactions, providing a valuable tool for studying melanocyte development and differentiation. Additionally, BMP4 affects the balance between melanocyte stem cells and hair follicle stem cells, crucial for maintaining hair follicle homeostasis and function.
