Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signaling Drives Rete Ridge Morphogenesis: A Distinct Epidermal Appendage Program

Thompson et al. have discovered that bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling is crucial for the morphogenesis of rete ridges in mammalian skin, a process distinct from hair follicle and sweat gland formation. Through advanced sequencing techniques, the study shows that rete ridges develop postnatally in pigs and humans, contributing to increased epidermal thickness. BMP signaling is identified as a key factor in this process, independent of hair density, with implications for skin regeneration therapies. The study also highlights the regenerative ability of neonatal skin to form rete ridges, unlike adult skin, which tends to scar. However, the use of porcine and murine models limits the direct applicability of these findings to human clinical settings.