Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To explore the research progress of the cell sources and related signaling pathways of the wound-induced hair follicle neogenesis (WIHN) in recent years. METHODS: The literature related to WIHN in recent years was reviewed, and the cell sources and molecular mechanism were summarized and discussed. RESULTS: Current research shows that WIHN is a rare regeneration phenomenon in the skin of adult mammals, with multiple cell origins, both hair follicle stem cells and epithelial stem cells around the wound. Its molecular mechanism is complicated, which is regulated by many signaling pathways. Besides, the process is closely related to the immune response, the immunocytes and their related cytokines provide suitable conditions for this process. CONCLUSION: There are still many unsolved problems on the cellular origins and molecular mechanisms of the WIHN. Further study on the mechanisms will enhance the understanding of adult mammals' hair follicle regeneration and may provide new strategy for functional healing of the human skin.