The enhancement of dermal papilla cell aggregation by extracellular matrix proteins through effects on cell–substratum adhesivity and cell motility

The 2009 study investigated the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in enhancing dermal papilla (DP) cell aggregation, which is important for hair follicle regeneration. The researchers coated a low adhesive substratum with ECM proteins such as fibronectin (Fn), collagen I, collagen IV, and laminin. They discovered that Fn coating significantly increased the formation of DP spheroidal microtissues by 28.9% after 5 days and 66.7% after 9 days, and maintained high cell motility, which is essential for cell aggregation. In contrast, collagen I, collagen IV, and laminin coatings reduced cell motility and were less effective in promoting spheroid formation. The study concluded that Fn coating enhances DP cell aggregation by promoting cell attachment, growth, and motility, suggesting its potential application in hair regeneration therapies.