April 2026 in “Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology” This study found that exosomes from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells reduced hair follicle aging and promoted hair regeneration in models by upregulating COL17A1 through the miR-21-5p/DKK2/Wnt/β-catenin axis, outperforming existing treatments like minoxidil.
April 2023 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology” The study demonstrated that both DKK2 and SOSTDC1 are necessary for normal timing of the first catagen phase in mice hair growth cycles.
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March 2017 in “Nature communications” This study identified 63 genetic loci associated with male-pattern baldness, uncovering genes and pathways that may help develop treatments and suggesting its connection to other human conditions.
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September 2023 in “Genes” This study analyzed the molecular evolution and functional divergence of the Dkk gene family, finding accelerated evolution in Aves and Reptilia and identifying functional differences that may impact hair follicle development via Wnt signaling inhibition.
January 2026 in “Aging and Disease” This review discusses recent research on the Dickkopf protein family's involvement in non-cancerous diseases and considers their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets without presenting new experimental results.