TLDR More melanoblasts in hair follicles mean better survival and proper hair pigmentation.
The study concluded that the survival of patchwork melanoblasts in hair follicles at the end of embryogenesis was dependent on their number. This finding suggested that a critical threshold of melanoblasts was necessary for their maintenance and proper function in hair pigmentation. The research highlighted the importance of cell quantity in the development and survival of melanocytes, which are essential for pigmentation.
745 citations,
February 1992 in “Trends in genetics” Hair follicles create different cell layers and proteins, controlled by various molecules.
521 citations,
January 1954 in “Physiological Reviews” Hair growth is cyclic and influenced mainly by local factors.
May 2023 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Blocking casein kinase 1 in skin cells can help melanocyte precursors move better, potentially helping with conditions like vitiligo or gray hair.
240 citations,
May 2011 in “Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research” Melanocyte stem cells in hair follicles are key for hair color and could help treat greying and pigment disorders.
10 citations,
November 2010 in “Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research” Only skin melanocytes, not other types, can color hair in mice.
75 citations,
January 2009 in “International journal of trichology” Hair grays due to oxidative stress and fewer functioning melanocytes.
