Multi-Layered Environmental Regulation on the Homeostasis of Stem Cells: The Saga of Hair Growth and Alopecia

February 2012 in “ Journal of Dermatological Science ”

Chih-Chiang Chen, Cheng Ming Chuong

hair stem cell homeostasis stem cell niche adipose tissue molecules hormones immune system nervous system aging circadian rhythms seasonal changes alopecia Wnt inhibitors PDGFA sex hormones fat tissue molecules body clock hair loss

TLDR Environmental factors at different levels control hair stem cell activity, which could lead to new hair growth and alopecia treatments.

The document from April 1, 2012, reviews the regulation of hair stem cell homeostasis by various environmental factors. It emphasizes that hair stem cell activity is influenced by both the immediate micro-environment, or stem cell niche, and broader macro-environmental factors such as adipose tissue molecules, hormones, immune and nervous system interactions, aging, circadian rhythms, and seasonal changes. The study suggests that these complex environmental networks could be targeted to develop therapies for hair growth and alopecia, potentially offering a safer alternative to direct stem cell manipulation. It also discusses specific factors like Wnt inhibitors, PDGFA, sex hormones, and the roles of the immune and nervous systems in stem cell regulation. The paper concludes that a multi-layered network of environmental factors regulates stem cell activity, and understanding this could lead to new treatments for tissue regeneration and degenerative diseases.

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β-catenin is essential for stem cell activation and proliferation in hair follicles.

The Distribution of Estrogen Receptor Beta Is Distinct to That of Estrogen Receptor Alpha and the Androgen Receptor in Human Skin and the Pilosebaceous Unit

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Estrogen Receptor ß (ERß) is the main hormone controller in human skin and hair follicles, not Estrogen Receptor α (ERα) or the Androgen Receptor (AR).

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Hair sensitivity to androgens is partly controlled by specific enzyme expressions in different hair areas.

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Cells from balding scalps have more androgen receptors than cells from non-balding scalps.

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