Referee Report for Advances in Understanding Hair Growth
February 2016
in “
Faculty of 1000 Research Ltd
”
New to Alopecia Areata? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → hair follicles mesenchymal components epithelial components glycans anagen catagen telogen signaling pathways growth factors morphogens hair follicle homeostasis Yin Yang concept inflammation immune responses alopecia areata androgenetic alopecia metabolomics in vitro hair growth technologies hair growth phases hair loss conditions hair growth research
Studysummary This review describes the dual influences on hair follicle homeostasis, proposing it as a "Yin Yang" paradigm, and highlights glycans as a potential key in hair follicle growth control; no new clinical results are reported.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document discussed the complex biology of hair follicles, focusing on the interaction between mesenchymal and epithelial components and the significant role of glycans in regulating hair growth. It emphasized the hair follicle's cyclical phases—growth (anagen), regression (catagen), and rest (telogen)—which are controlled by signaling pathways, growth factors, and morphogens. Glycans were highlighted as crucial modulators of these factors, affecting hair follicle homeostasis. The "Yin Yang" concept was used to describe the balance of opposing influences within the follicle. The document also pointed to the potential for future research to investigate the role of inflammation and immune responses in hair loss conditions such as alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia, with advancements in metabolomics and in vitro hair growth technologies providing new insights.
