The Control of Hair Growth
October 1998
in “
PubMed
”
Studysummary This article reviews the role of stem cells and cytokines in hair growth and discusses existing and potential treatments, but it presents no new clinical data.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document reviewed the control of hair growth, focusing on the role of stem cells in the hair follicle, particularly in the basal layer of the outer root sheath and the bulge area. These stem cells migrate to the hair matrix, where they divide and differentiate, a process regulated by cytokines from dermal papilla cells. Androgens influenced hair growth indirectly by affecting cytokine synthesis and release. The study also discussed drugs affecting hair growth, including cytotoxic drugs, antiandrogens, and those acting on potassium channels, suggesting that future drug development targeting specific steps in hair growth could improve treatment for hair growth disorders.
