Nestin-Expressing Hair Follicle-Accessible Pluripotent Stem Cells for Nerve and Spinal Cord Repair

Researchers discovered that nestin-expressing stem cells from hair follicles, termed hair follicle-accessible pluripotent (HAP) stem cells, could differentiate into neuronal and glial cells, aiding in the repair of peripheral nerve and spinal cord injuries. These cells enhanced injury repair and locomotor recovery when transplanted. In 3D Gelfoam® histoculture, HAP stem cells facilitated the growth and elongation of hair follicle nerves, interacting with other nerves such as the sciatic and trigeminal nerves. HAP stem cells were advantageous over embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells due to their accessibility, lack of genetic manipulation, non-tumorigenic nature, and absence of ethical issues.