Hair-Follicle-Associated Pluripotent Stem Cell Sheet Implantation Accelerates Wound Closure and Suppresses Scar Formation in a Mouse Model

The study explores the use of hair-follicle-associated pluripotent (HAP) stem cell sheets to improve wound healing and reduce scarring in mice. HAP stem cells, derived from hair follicles, can differentiate into various cell types, aiding in faster wound closure and less scar formation compared to controls. The study involved 7 mice per group for wound closure analysis and showed that implanted cells became keratinocytes, neurons, and endothelial cells, enhancing healing. Histological analysis indicated reduced scarring with less collagen deposition and decreased fibrosis markers. The findings suggest HAP stem cell sheets as a promising strategy for treating skin wounds and minimizing scarring.