Neuroprotective and Immunomodulatory Effects of Human Hair Follicle Stem Cells on Streptozotocin-Induced Memory Impairment in Rats: Insights into Inflammation and Neurotrophic Mechanisms

May 2025

Etrat Hooshmandi, Elahe Rafiei, Maryam Owjfard, Yasaman Mohammadi, Farhad Koohpeyma, Leila Simani, Mohammad Amin Safari, Afshin Borhani‐Haghighi, Nahid Ashjazadeh, Sareh Pandamooz, Mahnaz Bayat, Mohammad Saied Salehi

human hair follicle stem cells hHFSCs neurotrophic factors inflammatory markers hippocampus neuroprotective effects inflammatory response

TLDR Human hair follicle stem cells improved memory and brain health in rats.

This study investigated the effects of human hair follicle stem cells (hHFSCs) on memory impairment in rats induced by streptozotocin (STZ), a model for Alzheimer's disease. Rats were divided into control, STZ, and STZ + hHFSC groups, with hHFSCs transplanted at specific intervals. Memory function improved in hHFSC-treated rats, and molecular analyses showed increased neurotrophic factors and inflammatory markers in the hippocampus. The study found that hHFSCs have neuroprotective effects, with a complex inflammatory response involving both pro- and anti-inflammatory markers. The results suggest potential therapeutic benefits of hHFSCs, but future research should address immune responses to better understand their effects.

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