Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signaling Identified as Key Driver in Skin Rete Ridge Formation
A study published in Nature by Thompson et al. has identified bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling as a crucial driver in the formation of rete ridges in mammalian skin. Rete ridges are undulating projections of the basal epidermis that play a significant role in skin architecture. The research highlights that BMP signaling is distinct from other pathways that control the development of hair follicles and sweat glands. By using advanced sequencing techniques, the study mapped the development of rete ridges in pigs and humans, revealing that these structures form postnatally and are associated with increased epidermal thickness. The findings suggest that BMP signaling facilitates the formation of interconnected epidermal invaginations, establishing dermal pockets enriched with fibroblasts and vasculature. 
