Hair Follicle Stem Cell SLC3A2 Regulates Epithelial Regenerative Properties

September 2025 in “ Journal of Investigative Dermatology ”

Soline Estrach, Etienne Boulter, Laurence Cailleteau, Charles-Maxime Vivier, Lionel Tosello, Ludovic Cervera, Floriane S. Tissot, Chloé C. Féral

SLC3A2 hair follicle stem cells HFSCs skin homeostasis follicular keratinocytes interfollicular epidermis YAP/Taz-dependent pathway sphingolipid metabolism

TLDR SLC3A2 is crucial for hair follicle stem cell function and hair growth.

The study explores the critical role of the SLC3A2 gene in hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) and its impact on hair follicle regeneration. SLC3A2 is essential for maintaining HFSC population, proper localization, and function, as it enhances integrin signaling and influences stem cell fate through YAP/Taz-dependent pathways. Deleting SLC3A2 in HFSCs leads to significant hair growth defects, mislocation of stem cells, and impaired differentiation into follicular keratinocytes. The research highlights SLC3A2's involvement in sphingolipid metabolism and fibronectin meshwork assembly, crucial for HFSC function and hair follicle regeneration. Overall, SLC3A2 is vital for HFSC identity, location, and regenerative capabilities, with potential implications for skin homeostasis and regeneration.

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