Generation of Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Adherent 3-Dimensional Skin Hair-Follicle Organoids

The study developed a new protocol using a floating-adherent combinatory culture system to generate skin hair follicle organoids from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). This method aimed to address limitations in existing techniques, such as organoid heterogeneity and handling difficulties. The process involved creating embryoid bodies in a floating environment, followed by induction in adherent conditions, leading to faster protrusion and extension of hair germ-like buds. After 100 days, mature cystic skin organoids formed, comprising epidermis, dermis, and outer root sheath, with the presence of dermal condensate cells, hair follicle stem cells, putative bulge stem cells, and melanocytes. The constructed hair follicles were able to mimic the sensory functions of native tissues. This research provided a simplified and efficient approach to induce skin hair follicles from hiPSCs, contributing to the optimization of hair follicle growth and the development of new therapeutic strategies for treating alopecia.