Exploring Molecular Mechanisms Controlling Skin Homeostasis and Hair Growth: MicroRNAs in Hair-Cycle-Dependent Gene Regulation, Hair Growth, and Associated Tissue Remodeling

This study explored the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating gene expression during the hair cycle and skin homeostasis. It found that miR-31 increased during the anagen phase and decreased during catagen and telogen, influencing hair growth by targeting genes like Fgf10 and components of the Wnt and BMP signaling pathways. Inhibiting miR-31 accelerated anagen development in mice. Additionally, miR-214 was identified as an inhibitor of the Wnt signaling pathway, affecting the expression of β-catenin and other related genes. The study also examined the impact of BMP signaling on miRNA expression, particularly miR-21, which was modulated by BMP4 treatment. These findings highlighted the critical role of miRNAs in hair follicle growth and skin tissue remodeling.