Isolation, characterization and differentiation of dermal papilla cells from Small-tail Han sheep

Dermal papilla cells (DPCs) are the key dermal component of the hair follicle that directly regulates hair follicle development, growth and regeneration. Successfully isolated and cultured DPCs from Small-tail Han sheep could provide a good model for the study of hair follicle development mechanism in vitro. DPCs were isolated using enzyme digestion and dissecting microscope from Small-tail Han sheep. Adherent cells were identified by cell characteristics, particular gene expression, differentiation capability to adipocyte and osteoblast using specific differentiation mediums. Additionally, flow cytometry was used to detect the cell cycle of DPCs. Cells originating from the dermal papilla showed the morphological appearance of mesenchymal cells (fibroblast-like cells). Purified DPCs were positive for alpha-SMA (alpha smooth muscle actin) and vimentin; in addition to their strong proliferation abilities in vitro, these DPCs can be differentiated into adipocyte and osteoblasts lineage under appropriate culture condition. DPCs were successfully isolated and subcultured from Small-tail Han sheep, which exhibited progenitor cell features and multiple differentiation potency. It provides a material for studying the molecular mechanism of hair follicle development and hair cycle, which will promote wool production in the future.