Grant: CIHR New Investigator

In 2005, more than 11 million skin wounds (burns, trauma) were treated in emergency departments in the North America. In addition, at least 3 million adults are reported to have pressure ulcers yearly. The result is chronic pain, immobility, disfigurement and in many cases infection leading to further medical complication or death. The physical and emotional recovery can often require years of treatment and have devastating impact on quality of life. Moreover, the cost of chronic wound care alone in North America is estimated at $10 billion annually. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms involved in skin regeneration and wound healing and the potential for stem cell-based therapies to improve repair are of tremendous importance. Unlike other adult tissues, the mammalian hair follicle repeatedly regenerates itself, without formation of scar tissue. This remarkable regenerative capacity is due to the presence of stem cells that are maintained within the hair follicle throughout life. We have recently identified a multipotent dermal stem cell from adult hair follicles that functions to regulate hair follicle regeneration and growth. We have also obtained evidence to suggest that these cells may play a role in skin wound healing. Therefore, the objectives of the proposed studies will be to understand: 1) how dermal stem cells contribute to wound healing, 2) whether supplementing wounds with dermal stem cells improves healing, and 3) how the hair follicle micro-environment regulates the behavior of these stem cells throughout adulthood. These studies will provide important insights into adult stem cell biology and tissue regeneration. Dermal stem cells may provide a novel source of cells for hair follicle restoration and improved skin repair for burns and chronic ulcerations. Understanding how these cells are regulated may also provide clues as to the cause of skin disorders such as keloid, Neurofibromatosis and alopecia areata.