SP1 and KROX20 Regulate the Proliferation of Dermal Papilla Cells and Target the CUX1 Gene

This study explores how transcription factors SP1 and KROX20 regulate the CUX1 gene and the proliferation of dermal papilla cells (DPCs) in Hu sheep, which are essential for hair follicle formation and growth. SP1 was found to promote DPC proliferation by increasing CUX1 mRNA levels and the expression of proliferation markers, while KROX20 inhibited DPC proliferation by decreasing CUX1 mRNA levels. These findings suggest that SP1 and KROX20 have opposing effects on DPC proliferation, mediated through their regulation of the CUX1 gene, potentially informing future research on hair growth and follicle development.