Studysummary In this study, FGF5-knockout Dorper sheep generated using CRISPR/Cas9 showed increased fine-wool and active hair-follicle density, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for androgen alopecia. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
The study focused on the role of the fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5) gene, known for inhibiting the anagen phase of the hair cycle, and its impact on wool production. Researchers used the CRISPR/Cas9 system to create five FGF5-knockout Dorper sheep, resulting in significantly reduced FGF5 mRNA expression and dysfunctional FGF5 proteins. These knockout sheep exhibited increased fine-wool production and higher hair-follicle density. The study highlighted the interaction between androgen and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways downstream of the FGF5 gene, establishing a signaling cascade involving FGF5, FGFR1, androgen, AR, Wnt/β-catenin, Shh/Gli2, c-MYC, and KRTs. These findings enhanced the understanding of the FGF5 gene's function and suggested potential therapeutic approaches for androgen alopecia.
145 citations
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November 2018 in “Nature Communications” This study found that activating the Sonic hedgehog pathway in scarring wounds can remodel the dermis to promote hair follicle regeneration, highlighting a potential new approach to enhance healing.
47 citations
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June 2017 in “The FEBS journal” This study found that CRISPR/Cas9-induced loss-of-function mutations in the FGF5 gene significantly increased wool length and yield in genetically modified Chinese Merino sheep compared to wild-type controls.
104 citations
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October 2016 in “PLoS ONE” This study found that CRISPR/Cas9-mediated disruption of the FGF5 gene in goats increased hair follicle numbers and fiber length, suggesting more cashmere production could be achieved.
75 citations
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September 2007 in “Journal of Heredity” This study found that mutations in the FGF5 gene are the primary genetic factor causing long hair in domestic cats through an autosomal recessive mechanism.
171 citations
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July 2007 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” The researchers reported that DHT-inducible DKK-1 may play a significant role in DHT-driven balding by inhibiting hair follicle cell growth and promoting apoptosis in androgenetic alopecia.
829 citations
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May 2007 in “Nature” Hair follicles can regrow in wounded adult mouse skin using a process like embryo development.
