Changes in the Expression of Smooth Muscle Cell-Related Genes in Human Dermal Sheath Cup Cells Associated with the Treatment Outcome of Autologous Cell-Based Therapy for Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss

The study examined the expression of smooth muscle cell-related genes in human dermal sheath cup (DSC) cells and their impact on the outcomes of autologous cell-based therapy for male and female pattern hair loss, involving 32 DSC cell lines from 65 donors. It found that lower levels of smooth muscle cell markers like SRF and CALD1 were associated with better treatment outcomes. CHIR99021 treatment significantly downregulated these markers and upregulated SOX2 and LEF1, suggesting a shift towards dermal papilla cell properties, which are crucial for hair follicle generation. These findings indicate that modulating gene expression in DSC cells could enhance the efficacy of hair loss treatments. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to validate these results.