Tag

Melanocytes

All articles tagged with #melanocytes

science-and-technology2 years ago•2 min saved

"Breakthrough Discovery: 135 New Melanin Genes Unveiled, Revolutionizing Understanding of Pigmentation"

Researchers have identified 135 new genes that are responsible for pigmentation and melanin production in humans. Using CRISPR-Cas9 technology, the scientists systematically removed over 20,000 genes from melanocytes and observed the impact on melanin production. By separating cells with more or less melanin using a novel method, they identified both new and previously known genes that play important roles in regulating melanin production. The findings could help protect lighter-skinned individuals from skin cancer and lead to the development of melanin-modifying drugs for pigmentation diseases. The research could also be applied to identify genes that regulate melanin production in fungi and bacteria, potentially enabling the development of interventions against microbial diseases.

via Phys.org|

#crispr-cas9 #melanin-genes #melanocytes

science2 years ago•2 min saved

The Science Behind Premature Gray Hair Unveiled.

Scientists have discovered that melanocyte stem cells (McSCs) get trapped in the follicle bulge as people age, which stops them from developing into melanocytes and producing hair color. The researchers found that McSCs can switch between a stem cell state and a transit-amplifying state, but they become stuck in the follicle bulges. This unique behavior of McSCs may be responsible for graying and loss of hair color. The researchers suggest that modulating McSC mobility may represent a new approach for the prevention of hair graying.

via The Jerusalem Post|

#aging #gray-hair #melanocytes

science2 years ago•3 min saved

Uncovering the Cause of Gray Hair: Stuck Stem Cells

A new study published in the journal Nature has identified trapped stem cells as the root cause of gray hair. The study found that melanocytes, a type of stem cell, move between microscopic compartments in hair follicles, and as people age, more of these cells get stuck in one particular compartment, preventing hair from receiving its dose of pigmentation. The researchers say that moving the melanocyte stem cells to their proper location could prevent graying, and this research could also help in understanding how stem cells are regulated to maintain the body and reform tissues when lost due to injuries.

via NPR|

#aging #gray-hair #melanocytes

science2 years ago•3 min saved

Scientists link grey hair to 'stuck' cells.

Scientists from New York University have discovered that hair turns grey as we age due to pigment-making cells losing the ability to mature. The team studied the process in mice and found that stem cells become "stuck" in limbo, failing to mature into fully-fledged melanocytes, which give hair its natural colour or shade. The researchers believe that the same fixed-positioning of melanocyte stem cells may exist in humans, presenting a potential pathway for reversing or preventing greying. The study could also help our understanding and treatment of certain cancers and other medical conditions.

via BBC|

#grey-hair #hair-follicles #melanocytes