Epidermal Stem Cells: Practical Perspectives and Potential Uses

The 2009 document reviews the characteristics, identification, and potential therapeutic applications of epidermal stem cells, particularly in relation to skin and hair disorders. It emphasizes the importance of stem cell markers like CK19, p63, CD34, CD200, Tenascin-C, Lhx2, MTS24, Bmi-1, and others in distinguishing various stem cell populations within the skin, including those responsible for hair pigmentation and immune response. The review also discusses the role of these cells in the pathogenesis of diseases such as scarring alopecias and cutaneous malignancies, suggesting that cancer stem cells may arise from mutated normal stem cells. It explores the potential of stem cells in regenerative medicine, including the generation of bioengineered hair follicles for alopecia treatment, nerve regeneration, and gene therapy for congenital disorders. The document concludes that while the search for definitive stem cell markers continues, the current markers are essential for progressing dermatological research and developing new treatments.