Stem Cell Factor Combined With Matrix Proteins Promotes Attachment and Migration of Amelanotic Melanocyte From Human Hair Follicle

The study investigated the effects of stem cell factor (SCF) combined with matrix proteins on the attachment and migration of amelanotic melanocytes (AMMC) from human hair follicles. It was found that fibronectin (FN), laminin (LN), and type IV collagen (CIV) promoted AMMC attachment in a concentration-dependent manner, with FN and LN being more effective than CIV. SCF decreased the attachment effect of FN and CIV but increased the effect of LN. While LN had no chemotactic effects, FN and CIV did, and SCF enhanced the chemotactic effect of FN. SCF alone also had a chemotactic effect, which was further promoted by FN. Additionally, FN promoted the expression of stress fibers in AMMC, which were further enhanced by SCF. The study concluded that SCF regulates the interaction between AMMC and matrix proteins, and SCF combined with FN and CIV promotes AMMC migration, which may help explain the mechanism of AMMC migration during vitiligo repigmentation.