The Structure of Hair and Follicles of Mice Carrying the Naked (N) Gene

The study examined the hair and follicles of mice with the naked (N) gene using various microscopy techniques. It found that in N/+ mice, fibre cuticle cells and sometimes cortical cells were missing during hair growth. In N/N mice, there was a frequent absence of both cuticle and cortical cells throughout the follicle growth phase. Additionally, abnormalities were noted in the deposition of synthesized keratin in the fibres. The study discussed the potential mode of action of the N gene based on these findings.