In Vitro Growth and Differentiation of Epithelial Cells Derived from Post-Embryonic Hair Follicles

The study investigated the in vitro growth and differentiation of epithelial cells from post-embryonic hair follicles of young rats. Cell aggregates formed within the first 2 days of culture, with higher cell densities accelerating this process. These aggregates primarily consisted of epithelial cells, though some mesenchymal (fibroblast) cells were also present. Citrulline was found in the cultured cell proteins, and electrophoretic analysis revealed hair cortical keratin. However, contrary to previous findings, these proteins were not synthesized during the culture period.