Hair Follicle Stem Cells and Mitochondria

This review article highlights the importance of hair follicle stem cells and mitochondria in hair growth and the hair cycle. Hair follicle stem cells, found in the bulge area, are crucial for the hair cycle and can differentiate into various hair follicle cells. They are typically inactive but can activate and contribute to the formation of anagen hair follicles. Mitochondria are emphasized for their role in stem cell activity, with studies on mice indicating that mitochondrial proteins like CRIF1 are vital for the hair cycle, and mitochondrial dysfunction can result in delayed or suppressed hair follicle development. The review suggests targeting mitochondrial activity in stem cells as a potential approach for creating hair growth stimulants and notes the need for more effective hair loss treatments, with further research on these stem cells possibly leading to better therapies.