Murine Vibrissae Cultured in Serum-Free Medium Reinitiate Anagen

The study showed that murine vibrissae could reinitiate the anagen phase when cultured in a serum-free medium, with 94% of 86 vibrissae from 14-day-old mice exhibiting measurable shaft growth. The removal of collagen capsules allowed the vibrissae to enter additional anagen phases by forming new hair bulbs. The immobilization of hair shafts in silicone grease was a critical modification, creating a friction-free environment. This culture system was the first to support anagen reinitiation in vitro, providing a promising tool for testing hair growth treatments.