Yes, fat cells, also known as adipose tissue, can regenerate hair follicles and promote hair growth. This is a relatively new discovery in the field of dermatology and hair loss treatment. Below are some key points:
• A study published in the journal “Cell” in 2017 found that adipose tissue plays a critical role in hair regeneration. The researchers found that when hair dies, the surrounding fat cells die too. However, when the hair begins to regrow, the fat cells multiply and promote hair growth.
• The study also found that these fat cells secrete a protein called platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), which is crucial for hair growth. When PDGF was removed from these cells, hair growth was significantly reduced.
• This discovery has significant implications for the treatment of hair loss. It could potentially lead to new treatments that target the fat cells in the scalp to promote hair growth.
• In another study published in “Nature Cell Biology” in 2014, researchers discovered that hair follicles reside in a fatty layer of the skin, which expands and contracts in sync with the hair growth cycle. During hair growth, the fat layer expands, providing necessary support to the growing hair follicle.
• In the same study, it was found that hair follicle stem cells can convert into fat cells, which then aid in hair growth. This was a novel finding, as it was previously believed that stem cells could only differentiate into cells of their own type.
• These studies suggest that fat cells and hair follicles are more interconnected than previously thought. This could open up new avenues for research and treatment in the field of hair loss and hair regeneration. In conclusion, research suggests that fat cells can indeed regenerate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this process and to develop effective treatments based on these findings.