Journey toward unraveling the molecular basis of hereditary hair disorders

Abstract Recent advances in molecular genetics have led to the identification of many genes expressed in hair follicle (HF), while the precise roles of these genes in the HF have not completely been disclosed. Using the methods of forward genetics, we and others have recently identified a series of genes responsible for hereditary hair disorders in humans, including monilethrix, woolly hair, and various ectodermal dysplasia syndromes. Furthermore, expression and functional analyzes have gradually revealed that these genes are directly or indirectly related with each other. As such, the journey toward unraveling the molecular basis of hereditary hair disorders will contribute to better understanding of the complex mechanisms for HF morphogenesis and development in humans.