Melanocyte Stem Cells in the Skin: Origin, Biological Characteristics, Homeostatic Maintenance and Therapeutic Potential

Melanocyte stem cells (MSCs) are crucial for skin and hair pigmentation and play a significant role in the homeostasis, repair, and regeneration of skin tissue. They are derived from the neural crest and found in the hair follicle, epidermis, or sweat gland. A decrease in MSCs or their impaired function is linked to conditions like hair graying, vitiligo, wound healing issues, and melanoma. Advances in stem cell technology have enhanced the understanding of MSCs, highlighting their potential in regenerative medicine, skin pigmentation disorders, and cancer therapy. The review emphasizes the importance of single-cell RNA sequencing, CRISPR-Cas9 technology, and practical models in MSC research, aiming to improve clinical applications.