Melanocyte Chitosan/Gelatin Composite Fabrication with Human Outer Root Sheath-Derived Cells to Produce Pigment

The study explored the isolation of melanocyte stem cells (MelSCs) from human hair follicles using the "side population" technique, which is commonly applied to hematopoietic and tumor stem cells. The researchers analyzed mRNA expression and melanosome structure, confirming that the isolated SP-fraction contained MelSCs along with differentiated melanocytes. These cells were then used to create a cell-chitosan/gelatin composite, which successfully repopulated the skin of immunocompromised mice, leading to regained pigmentation. This indicated that the SP technique could effectively isolate MelSCs for potential use in treating pigmentary disorders.