Single-Cell Sequencing Reveals the Intermediate Cell State and Function of Dermal Papilla Cells in the Hair Follicle Cycle of Cashmere Goats

Using cashmere goats as a model due to their clear hair follicle periodicity, researchers conducted single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate the role of dermal papilla (DP) cells in hair follicle cycles. They constructed a DP cell lineage differentiation trajectory, identifying key genes and signaling pathways involved in cell fate decisions. The study revealed four distinct intermediate DP cell states with specific functions: Intermediate cells 10 were crucial for cashmere growth and attachment; intermediate cells 1 played a significant role in apoptosis and shedding of secondary hair follicles; intermediate cells 0 initiated new follicular cycles and hair growth; and intermediate cells 15 were identified as DP progenitor cells. This research provides a deeper understanding of DP cell functions and their differentiation during the hair follicle cycle.