TLDR Feather patterns form through genetic and epigenetic controls, with cells self-organizing into periodic patterns.
The study concluded that integument pattern formation, such as feather arrays, involved both genetic and epigenetic controls. Genetic control provided the molecular information necessary for cell properties, while epigenetic control governed cell interactions and their environment based on physical-chemical rules. The research utilized a Digital Hormone Model (DHM) to simulate self-organization phenomena in feather patterning, demonstrating how cells dynamically interact and form patterns through hormone reaction, diffusion, and dissipation. This model also aimed to aid in developing reconfigurable robots.
57 citations,
August 1997 in “Microscopy Research and Technique” New molecules involved in skin and hair growth were identified, improving understanding and future treatments.
745 citations,
February 1992 in “Trends in genetics” Hair follicles create different cell layers and proteins, controlled by various molecules.
19 citations,
April 2015 in “Developmental Dynamics” The conclusion is that skin and hair patterns are formed by a mix of cell activities, molecular signals, and environmental factors.
92 citations,
August 2017 in “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America” Newborn mouse skin cells can grow hair and this process can be recreated in adult cells to potentially help with hair loss.
82 citations,
February 2017 in “Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology” The TGF-β family helps control how cells change and move, affecting skin, hair, and organ development.
29 citations,
May 2020 in “npj Regenerative Medicine” Immune cells help regulate hair growth, and better understanding this can improve hair loss treatments.
Ovol2 is crucial for hair growth and skin healing by controlling cell movement and growth.
