The Developmental Basis of Fingerprint Pattern Formation and Variation

    February 2023 in “ Cell ”
    James D. Glover, Zoe R. Sudderick, Barbara Shih, Cameron Batho-Samblas, Laura Charlton, Andrew L. Krause, Calum Anderson, Jon Riddell, Adam Balic, Jinxi Li, Václav Klika, Thomas E. Woolley, Eamonn A. Gaffney, Andrea Corsinotti, Richard A. Anderson, Luke Johnston, Sara Brown, Sijie Wu, Yong Chen, Michael L. Crichton, Denis J. Headon
    TLDR Fingerprints form uniquely before birth due to specific genetic pathways and local signals.
    The study investigates the developmental mechanisms behind fingerprint pattern formation, revealing that fingerprint ridges are epithelial structures formed through a truncated hair follicle developmental program without mesenchymal cells. The spatial pattern of these ridges is established through a Turing reaction-diffusion system involving EDAR, WNT, and BMP signaling pathways, which lead to bands of focalized proliferation. Ridge formation occurs in waves from variable initiation sites influenced by local signaling environments and anatomical features. The study highlights the role of mechanical properties of the skin and draws parallels between human and mouse ridge formation, noting the involvement of Turing patterning systems. It emphasizes the influence of volar pad size, shape, and genetic factors like RSPO2 and EDAR on fingerprint patterns, while also acknowledging the limitations of mouse models and the need for advanced human-specific models.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    3 / 3 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    5 / 5 results

      community Tom Cruise at the Mission Impossible premiere hair.(He's 61 y/o)

      in Chat  392 upvotes 9 months ago
      The conversation speculates on whether Tom Cruise uses hair loss treatments like Finasteride or Dutasteride, with some suggesting he naturally has good hair like Brad Pitt, while others joke about Scientology or genetics playing a role. Specific treatments mentioned include Finasteride, Dutasteride, and possibly high-quality hair products or procedures like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma).

      community About the CBD regrowth study : just a few remarks

      in Research/Science  167 upvotes 3 years ago
      CBD in an emu and lanolin oil preparation showed a 100% increase in hair growth, but the effectiveness may partly come from the oils. Users discussed proper CBD dosage, preparation methods, and skepticism about the study's quality.

      community 2 and a half years progress and update

      in Progress Pictures  318 upvotes 1 year ago
      After 2.5 years of using 1mg finasteride daily, 5% minoxidil foam twice daily, and weekly micro-needling, the user reports thicker, healthier hair without further loss. They noticed initial regrowth at 3 months, with significant improvement up to 18 months, and no negative side effects from the treatment.

      community Horrible news, Stemson Therapeutics has shut down

      in Technology  193 upvotes 2 weeks ago
      Stemson Therapeutics has shut down, disappointing those seeking a hair loss cure. Current treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride are discussed, with some users experiencing side effects and exploring alternatives like PP405.

    Related Research

    1 / 1 results