Overview
- In experiments reported in Nature Cell Biology, melanocyte stem cells with DNA damage underwent 'seno-differentiation' in mice, producing grey hair as they exited the stem pool.
- Under carcinogen or UV exposure, the same stem cells instead persisted and expanded despite damage, creating conditions linked to melanoma formation.
- Researchers describe these divergent outcomes as 'antagonistic fates', with cell destiny determined by the type of stress and local follicle signals.
- The study implicates KIT ligand and related niche cues in blocking the exit pathway during carcinogenic stress, promoting survival of damaged cells.
- Clinicians and authors caution that the findings are preclinical and do not show that grey hair protects humans, urging reliance on routine screening and early detection.