Identification of androgen-regulated genes in SV40-transformed human hair dermal papilla cells

Abstract

Background: Androgens are major regulators of human hair growth, which exert their effect on follicular epithelium via the mesenchyme-derived dermal papilla (DP) cells. However, very few data are available with regard to the genes regulated by androgen in DP cells. Objective: To investigate the differentially expressed genes by androgen in DP cells. Methods: Human hair DP cells were cultured and transformed with SV40 T antigen. Using cDNA representational difference analysis, androgen-regulated genes in SV40-transformed dermal papilla (SDP) cells were identified. Results: SDP cells revealed extended lifespan as compared with primary cultured DP cells. SDP cells expressed androgen receptor (AR) and showed androgen responsiveness. cDNA representational difference analysis followed by Northern blot analysis showed that heat shock cognate protein, Hsc70 was differentially expressed by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) treatment in SV40-transformed DP cells. Conclusion: These results suggest that Hsc70 may be involved in androgen action on DP cells.