Fibroblast Growth Factor and Epidermal Growth Factor in Hair Development

The study investigated the roles of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) in hair follicle development in newborn mice. Daily injections of these growth factors for 1 week post-birth revealed that FGF influenced hair follicle initiation and development, causing a significant delay in hair cycles localized to the treatment area. Basic FGF (bFGF) was associated with mitotic activity in developing follicles, while acidic FGF (aFGF) was linked to follicle bulb differentiation. EGF, affecting the entire body coat, induced hyperkeratinization and delayed hair follicle development. These findings suggested that FGF and EGF play crucial roles in hair follicle morphogenesis through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms.