Novel Application of Layered Expression Scanning for Proteomic Profiling of Plucked Hair Follicles

The study introduced a novel method called layered expression scanning of hair (LES-hair) for proteomic profiling of plucked hair follicles. This technique allowed for the detection of differential protein expression, including cleaved caspase 3, Ki-67, and phosphorylated forms of c-Kit, epidermal growth factor receptor, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, within specific regions of the follicle. LES-hair was less labor-intensive and more quantitative than traditional methods, offering a valuable tool for researching hair follicle biology. It also showed potential for clinical applications, such as monitoring alopecia treatments and assessing pharmacodynamic effects in cancer therapies.