Dynamic Wnt5a Expression in Murine Hair Follicle Cycle and Its Inhibitory Effects on Follicular Growth

The study investigated the expression of Wnt5a, a member of the Wnt family, during the hair follicle cycle in mice and its potential inhibitory effects on hair follicle growth. Using in situ hybridization, the researchers found that Wnt5a mRNA was expressed from birth and varied throughout the hair cycle, peaking during the advanced growth stage. The study also involved injecting Ad-Wnt5a into mice after hair removal to observe its effects on hair follicle growth. Results showed that Wnt5a expression was associated with decreased levels of Rhoa and β-catenin, and increased Rac2 expression, suggesting an inhibitory effect on hair follicle growth. The findings indicate that Wnt5a acts antagonistically to the Wnt pathway and interferes with hair follicle growth in vivo.