Serine-rich ultra high sulfur protein gene expression in murine hair and skin during the hair cycle.

The study investigated the expression of serine-rich ultra high sulfur protein genes in mice during the hair cycle. Two genes, gUHS-SER-1 and gUHS-SER-2, were identified, encoding proteins with high cysteine and serine content. These genes showed 73% similarity and contained several 10-amino acid repeats. The research found that mRNA levels for these genes were elevated during active hair growth phases and low during resting phases. In situ hybridization revealed that mRNA was present in the medulla, inner root sheath of forming hair, and upper layers of the epidermis during active hair growth phases.