Human hair follicle pluripotent stem (hfPS) cells promote regeneration of peripheral‐nerve injury: An advantageous alternative to ES and iPS cells

The study explored the potential of human hair follicle pluripotent stem (hfPS) cells as a promising alternative to embryonic stem (ES) and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells for regenerative medicine. Unlike ES and iPS cells, hfPS cells were easily accessible, autologous, and did not pose ethical concerns or risks of immunologic rejection. The research demonstrated that hfPS cells could differentiate into various cell types, including neurons and glial cells, and effectively promote nerve regeneration. In experiments, human hfPS cells transplanted into the severed sciatic nerve of mice differentiated into Schwann cells, aiding in nerve regeneration and functional recovery, as evidenced by muscle contraction upon electrical stimulation. This indicated that hfPS cells could be a safer and more efficient source for regenerative therapies.