Spatiotemporal Switches in Progenitor Cell Fate Govern Upper Hair Follicle Growth and Maintenance

This study investigates how the infundibulum, a crucial epidermal tissue compartment, is maintained during adulthood. Using quantitative fate mapping, researchers found that progenitor cells contribute to tissue maintenance through stochastic cell fate choices. The study revealed that cells initially located at the bottom of the structure transiently dominate tissue maintenance, with local progenitor expansion occurring in bursts during hair growth phases. These findings highlight the role of spatiotemporal regulation in controlling progenitor cell dynamics within the infundibulum, providing insights into the maintenance of this essential component of the epidermis.