Epithelial Growth Control by Neurotrophins: Leads and Lessons from the Hair Follicle

The document reviewed the role of neurotrophins (NTs) such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in hair follicle (HF) biology, revealing that NTs significantly influenced skin and HF development by modulating keratinocyte proliferation and apoptosis. Specific NTs like NGF and NT-3 promoted HF development via Trk receptors, while p75NTR had inhibitory effects. The study suggested that NTs primarily promoted hair follicle regression (catagen) rather than growth, indicating their potential as therapeutic targets for hair growth disorders. The findings were supported by both murine and human HF models, suggesting the possibility of developing NT receptor agonists and antagonists for treating hair growth issues.