A glorious revolution in stem cell biology

Nature Genetics 40, 1269 (2008). doi:10.1038/ng1108-1269

Author: Bruce A Morgan

A newly described Lgr5-expressing cell population is poised to depose the reigning monarch of the follicular hierarchy, the label-retaining cell, to claim the title as stem cell of the hair follicle.

Combing the genome for the root cause of baldness

Nature Genetics 40, 1270 (2008). doi:10.1038/ng1108-1270

Author: W H Irwin McLean

Two new studies report the results of genome-wide association analysis for androgenetic alopecia. The two major genetic loci identified set the scene for understanding the molecular basis of common male-pattern baldness.

Research Highlights

Nature Genetics 40, 1277 (2008). doi:10.1038/ng1108-1277

Photoreceptors in evolution and disease

Nature Genetics 40, 1275 (2008). doi:10.1038/ng1108-1275

Authors: Boaz Cook & Andrew C Zelhof

A new study identifies the gene that, when mutated, causes autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa 25 (arRP25). The RP25 gene encodes an ortholog of Drosophila spacemaker (eyes shut), thus emphasizing common biological functions between Drosophila sensory systems and the human eye.