Dynamics of Hair Follicle Morphogenesis and Skin Homeostasis

The study explored hair follicle biology, focusing on terminal differentiation and hair canal formation, and its link to harlequin ichthyosis (HI), a severe skin disease. It identified distinct phases of matrix progenitor cell differentiation, with early cells differentiating independently of certain signals, while later cells required mature dermal papilla and specific signaling pathways. The research highlighted the role of keratin 79+ cells in hair canal formation and their apoptosis during development. It also discovered that the gene Abca12, linked to HI, is expressed in the hair canal, suggesting a connection between hair follicle formation and epidermal barrier diseases. A new mouse model was developed to study Abca12's role, offering insights into HI pathogenesis and normal skin and hair development.