Optimized Microwell Array Device for Preparation of Hair Follicle Germ-Like Aggregates

This study investigated the use of microwell arrays with different geometries to create hair follicle germ-like structures in vitro, which could contribute to understanding hair follicle morphogenesis and advancing hair regenerative medicine. The research demonstrated that the shape of microwells, such as flat, round-bottom, pen, and cone, significantly affected the formation of hair follicle germ and the expression of hair growth-related genes. Pen-type microwells were particularly effective in enhancing follicle germ formation by promoting cell assembly. Additionally, centrifugal filling of cells in round-bottom wells improved cell assembly and follicular germ formation rates, leading to higher expression of the hair growth-associated gene, versican. These results indicated that microwell arrays could be useful for producing various organoids and tissues beyond hair follicles.