Distinct Mechanisms Underlie Pattern Formation in the Skin and Skin Appendages

    September 2006 in “ Birth Defects Research ”
    Randall B. Widelitz, Ruth E. Baker, Maksim V. Plikus, Chih Min Lin, Philip K. Maini, Ralf Paus, Cheng Ming Chuong
    Image of study
    TLDR Different processes create patterns in skin and things like hair and feathers.
    The document from 2006 reviews the mechanisms behind pattern formation in the skin and its appendages, such as hair follicles and feathers. It explains that these patterns can result from genetic, molecular, and environmental factors, including genetic mosaicism, morphogenetic gradients, and hormonal regulation. The review also discusses the role of Hox genes in skin regional specificity and the influence of epigenetic factors on patterns like fingerprints and animal pigmentation. It highlights the importance of epithelial-mesenchymal interactions and the concept of morphogenetic gradients, using Wnt 3a in feather follicles as an example. Additionally, the document describes the cyclic alopecia phenomenon in mice and the independent hair follicle cycles in humans, noting the influence of sex hormones on skin appendages during puberty and the potential reversal of these changes, leading to conditions like androgenic alopecia. Environmental factors such as light/dark cycles and temperature changes are also mentioned as influencers of skin patterns. The authors suggest that understanding these complex pattern formations is key to bridging molecular biology with organism phenotypes and that patterns can change through regeneration and organ growth during development.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    11 / 11 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community The most depressing things about hair loss for me

      in Chat  24 upvotes 3 years ago
      The emotional impact of hair loss and the risks associated with common treatments such as finasteride, dutasteride, minoxidil, RU58841, and Fluridil. People discussed their personal experiences with these treatments, including potential side effects and lowered fertility. Hair transplants were also mentioned as a possible solution.

      community Do hair follicles dies or are dormant ?

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  92 upvotes 3 weeks ago
      Hair follicles can be dormant and potentially revived with treatments like finasteride and minoxidil, but irreversible loss occurs if certain structures are destroyed. Early intervention is more effective, and additional methods like microneedling may help.

      community Having androgen receptor density and sensitivity at wrong f*ing place

      in Satire  7 upvotes 2 months ago
      The conversation discusses hair loss treatments, focusing on the use of topical minoxidil, microneedling, finasteride, and dutasteride, while debating the role of testosterone and DHT in hair loss. It also touches on the potential liver health impacts of these treatments and the genetic sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens.

      community How does hair loss and recovery work?

      in Chat  12 upvotes 3 months ago
      Hair loss varies due to genetic sensitivity to DHT and other factors. Treatments discussed include finasteride, minoxidil, RU58841, and microneedling.

    Related Research

    2 / 2 results