Coordinating Stem Cell Behavior In The Hair Follicle

The study explores the coordination between two distinct stem cell populations in hair follicles: epithelial hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) and melanocyte stem cells (McSCs). It identifies nuclear factor I/B (Nfib) as a key transcription factor upregulated in HFSCs, essential for hair follicle morphogenesis and wound repair. Surprisingly, while Nfib ablation in adult HFSCs did not affect their maintenance or the hair cycle, it unexpectedly promoted McSC proliferation and differentiation. These findings highlight the complex interplay between HFSCs and McSCs, offering insights into their cooperative roles in hair follicle function and potential implications for conditions like injury, stress, and disease.