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Patterns of nestin expression in human skin
Yun Wang1, Yi Zhang, Yijun Zeng
1Department of Cell Biology, The Third Military Medical University, Chong Qing 400038, PR China.
Cell Biology International
|November 9, 2005
Summary
Nestin, a marker for neural stem cells, is expressed in the epidermis and upper hair follicle. Its expression pattern in scalp skin correlates with epidermal stem cell differentiation.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Nestin is an intermediate filament protein.
- It is a known marker for neural stem cells and indicates their differentiation.
- Its role in epidermal stem cells is not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate nestin expression in human scalp skin.
- To determine the relationship between nestin expression and epidermal stem cell differentiation.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis of human scalp skin.
- Analysis of nestin mRNA transcription levels.
Main Results:
- Nestin was expressed in the epidermis and upper two-thirds of the hair follicle.
- Expression was weak in the sebaceous gland.
- Nestin mRNA levels were higher in the hair follicle bulge than in the sebaceous gland.
Conclusions:
- Nestin expression in scalp skin is associated with epidermal stem cells.
- The pattern of nestin expression reflects epidermal stem cell differentiation.