DcR3 Reprograms Macrophage Plasticity to Promote Wound Healing and Hair Regeneration

January 2026 in “ Journal of Dermatological Science ”

Shih-Hsun Ou, Yi-Chun Chen, Shie-Liang Hsieh, C. Chen

Decoy Receptor 3 DcR3 macrophage polarization M1 phenotype M2 phenotype tissue repair hair regeneration wound healing transgenic mice alopecia treatment hair regrowth chronic wound management

Studysummary This study suggests that DcR3 can reprogram macrophages towards a reparative state, enhancing wound healing and hair follicle regeneration, making it a potential target for treating chronic wounds and alopecia.

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The study explores the impact of Decoy Receptor 3 (DcR3) on macrophage polarization, highlighting its potential in promoting wound healing and hair regeneration. DcR3 facilitates the shift of macrophages from a pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to a reparative M2 phenotype, essential for tissue repair. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments, including those with transgenic mice, the research shows that DcR3 accelerates wound closure and enhances hair regrowth by modifying the wound microenvironment. This process involves decreasing M1-like macrophages, increasing M2-like macrophages, and enriching transitional macrophage populations. The results indicate that DcR3 could be a valuable target for developing therapies for chronic wound management and alopecia treatment.

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