The Rise of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Approach to Hair Restoration

The study "The Rise of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Approach to Hair Restoration" discusses a new regenerative medicine approach to hair loss using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The process involves reprogramming somatic cells (like blood or skin cells) from a person experiencing hair loss to generate autologous iPSCs. These iPSCs can be amplified, cryopreserved, and differentiated into various cell types such as dermal papilla cells, epithelial cells, melanocytes, and other cell types that make up a functional hair follicle. Transplantation of human iPSC-derived folliculogenic cells into nude mice has successfully generated xenografts with hair outgrowth. This approach, which provides an unlimited source of folliculogenic cells for the formation of new hair follicles, has significant advantages over current surgical hair restoration procedures. When combined with robotics and automation, this novel regenerative medicine approach could make hair restoration a routine and affordable procedure.