Faculty Opinions Recommendation of FGF9 from Dermal γδ T Cells Induces Hair Follicle Neogenesis After Wounding
TLDR FGF9 from certain cells can trigger new hair growth during wound healing, but humans have fewer of these cells, which may limit hair regrowth.
In a study conducted 10 years ago, researchers found that Fibroblast Growth Factor 9 (FGF9) from γδ T cells played a crucial role in inducing hair follicle neogenesis (new hair growth) during wound healing in mice. The study showed that FGF9 was significantly upregulated during late wound healing, and overexpression of FGF9 resulted in an increase in wound-induced hair neogenesis (WIHN). The researchers also found that FGF9 triggered Wnt expression in dermal fibroblasts, which then secreted more FGF9, creating a feedback loop that promoted hair growth. However, the study also noted that humans have fewer γδ T cells in their skin, which may explain why human skin has a lower capacity for regenerative hair growth. The findings suggested the potential for FGF9 to be used in treatments for hair loss.
