Thbs4 Promotes Hair Regeneration by Inducing Dermal Mechanical Niche Adaptation

The study highlights the crucial role of THBS4 in hair regeneration by modulating the mechanical properties of the dermal niche, which reduces matrix stiffness and enhances interactions between the epidermis and dermis. This process activates hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) and accelerates the transition from the telogen to anagen phase, promoting hair growth. THBS4 upregulation in dermal fibroblasts activates signaling pathways involving ITGB1, EGR1, and HMGCR, facilitating HFSC proliferation. Experiments with mice and organoids showed that THBS4 treatment significantly enhances hair regeneration, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for hair loss treatments. Further research is needed to explore the detailed mechanisms of THBS4 in extracellular matrix assembly and metabolic reprogramming.