Modulating Embryonic Signaling Pathways Paves the Way for Regeneration in Wound Healing

February 2024 in “ Frontiers in physiology ”

Sophie Frech, Beate M. Lichtenberger

Wnt/β-catenin Hedgehog Hh scarless wound healing hair follicle regeneration IL36a wound-induced hair neogenesis WIHN IL6/Stat3 pathway Wnt-signaling fibroblasts papillary fibroblasts embryonic signals Wnt signaling Hedgehog signaling scarless healing hair regeneration IL6/Stat3

Studysummary In this review, the authors explore strategies for inducing scarless skin regeneration by modulating dermal signaling or specific fibroblast subsets to promote the formation of new hair follicles in wounds, particularly focusing on mimicking neonatal skin's regenerative capabilities.

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The review explores how modulating embryonic signaling pathways, particularly Wnt/β-catenin and Hedgehog (Hh), can promote scarless wound healing and hair follicle regeneration in adult skin. It highlights that fetal and neonatal skin can heal without scars, a process researchers aim to replicate in adults. Key findings include the role of IL36a in promoting wound-induced hair neogenesis (WIHN) via the IL6/Stat3 pathway, the impact of Wnt-signaling in fibroblasts on hair follicle regeneration, and the dual role of Hh-signaling in different fibroblast lineages. The study suggests that increasing the density of papillary fibroblasts and reactivating embryonic signals can shift wound repair from scarring to complete regeneration, offering promising therapeutic approaches for improving skin healing and hair growth.

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$Fibroblasts: Immunomodulatory Factors in Refractory Diabetic Wound Healing$

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