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Dermal Papilla Cells

Meaning

Dermal Papilla Cells (DPCs) are a specialized population of mesenchymal-derived cells located strategically at the base of the hair follicle, residing within the hair bulb structure. These critical cells are fundamentally responsible for regulating the entire hair growth and cycling process through continuous, reciprocal signaling with the surrounding epithelial cells of the hair matrix. Their overall health and functional activity are critically dependent on precise hormonal and growth factor signaling, making them central players in hair biology and a key therapeutic target in the clinical management of various forms of alopecia.