The Hair Follicle as an Interdisciplinary Model for Biomedical Research: An Eclectic Literature Synthesis

Bioessays. 2020 Nov;42(11):e2000053. doi: 10.1002/bies.202000053. Epub 2020 Sep 28.

Abstract

Skin is a comparatively accessible organ possessing many conserved regulatory and signaling pathways, drawing researchers from varied fields toward its study. Hair follicle (HF) biology in particular has expanded rapidly over the preceding decade, helping to shape and develop scientific knowledge across diverse areas of biomedical research, beyond the skin. The hope in compiling this review is to inspire more researchers to utilize the HF as an instructive biological model, bringing with them fresh perspectives and experience from differing fields of study. The authors also wish to further motivate seasoned hair researchers to explore the further reaches of their understanding and the discoveries yet to be made. For this reason, the authors have endeavored to collate an eclectic mix of some of the most thought-provoking and scientifically intriguing articles associated with the field of HF research, published in the preceding two years.

Keywords: biomedical research; developmental biology; hair follicle; stem cell biology; tissue engineering.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomedical Research*
  • Hair
  • Hair Follicle*
  • Humans
  • Signal Transduction
  • Skin