Hair Growth Promoting Effect of Dermal Papilla-Like Tissues from Canine Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Athymic Nude Mice

The 2016 study explored the potential of dermal papilla-like tissues (DPLTs) derived from canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) to promote hair growth in athymic nude mice. Thirty mice were divided into control and treatment groups, with the latter receiving DPLTs injections into skin wounds. The DPLTs were found to closely resemble natural dermal papillae in structure and protein expression, including the expression of versican and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The treatment group exhibited significant hair follicle and sebaceous gland regeneration, as well as increased vascularization, which was attributed to the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by the DPLTs. Although the DPLTs did not integrate into the new dermal papillae, their paracrine effects were deemed responsible for the observed hair regeneration. This suggests that engineered canine DPLTs could be a viable treatment for alopecia, providing a basis for further research into hair follicle regeneration.