Le gène<i>hairless</i>de la souris

The study of the hairless gene in mice demonstrated its essential role in maintaining hair follicle integrity and cycling, with mutations causing premature apoptosis of hair bulbs, leading to hair loss and the formation of epidermal utricles and dermal cysts. The Hairless (Hr) protein acted as a transcriptional regulator, interacting with nuclear hormone receptors and chromatin remodeling factors. The gene was expressed in various tissues, including the brain and thymus, and was involved in processes like Hox gene regulation. Mutations in the hairless gene resulted in irreversible hair loss and were linked to conditions like congenital alopecia in humans. The research provided insights into alopecia, skin physiology, and potential treatments for hair loss and skin differentiation issues.