Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells From Human Hair Follicle Keratinocytes As A Potential Source For In Vitro Hair Follicle Cloning

The study demonstrated that human hair follicle keratinocytes could be reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using a retroviral method with transcription factors OCT4, SOX2, KLF4, and C-MYC. These iPSCs expressed pluripotency markers and could differentiate into the three germ layers, as well as re-differentiate into keratinocytes. The findings suggested that hair follicle-derived iPSCs could be a promising source for hair follicle regeneration and cloning, offering potential new treatments for hair loss, alopecia, and skin regeneration in burn patients. The study emphasized the need for safer reprogramming methods to enhance clinical applications.