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The Benefits of a Trampoline Workout & Rebounding

The AHA! Team — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:23:54 +0000

Kyra Oliver via Dr. Axe – Many people first fall in love with trampolines as children, but did you know that a trampoline workout can benefit adults just as much as trampolines bring joy to the little ones? It’s true. In addition to being fun, a trampoline workout, also known as rebounding, has many great health benefits — particularly for your lymphatic system. For instance, did you know that rebounding can burn more calories than walking or jogging? Or that it’s a great way to work your major muscle groups because it allows you to work them through their full ranges of motion? Or that it’s downright fun?! A trampoline workout can also strengthen your body while detoxifying the cells within it. Plus, it’s a low-impact exercise option that’s very easy on the joints — something running can’t match. While you may think the type of large trampolines you seen in backyards may be a bit much, there are small versions that can fit right in your living room and are easy to store. So get ready to jump around and improve your health all at the same time. Read on to learn how to do a trampoline workout and how exactly it strengthens the body. What Is Rebounding? Trampoline and tumbling exercises have been around for a very long time and can be traced to archeological drawings found in ancient China, Egypt and Persia. The firs modern trampolines were developed in 1934 by George Nissen and Larry Griswold at the University of Iowa, according to the official website of the Olympics. Trampolines were originally used to train astronauts and as a training tool for other sports, such as acrobatics, tumbling, diving, gymnastics and freestyle skiing. Eventually, trampolines became so popular to the point of becoming a sport in the Olympic Games. The first Trampoline World Championships took place in 1964, and trampoline was first recognized as a sport in the U.S. in 1967. The double mini-trampoline competition was added in 1978 and began as two individual mini trampolines, separated by a small table covered by a mat. Later, a one-piece unit was developed by Bob Bollinger and is used today as the official equipment for that event. Trampolines have become useful in the understanding of gravity and its effects on exercise. The Journal of Applied Physiology recorded a study by NASA in 1980 on rebounding by testing eight young males ages 19–26. The goal was to understand body acceleration distribution and its relation to how it was created. Here’s what the researchers concluded: The results indicate that, for similar levels of HR and VO2, the magnitude of the biomechanical stimuli is greater with jumping on a trampoline than with running, a finding that might help identify acceleration parameters needed for the design of remedial procedures to avert deconditioning in persons exposed to weightlessness. Trampoline Workout Benefits We all know there are many benefits of exercise, but what are the benefits of rebounding, specifically? Let’s explore. 1. Easy on the Joints Working out on the trampoline, or rebounding, has way less impact on the joints, soft tissue and skeleton. Due to how a trampoline is made, most often using either springs or bungee bands, it absorbs much of the impact at every bounce. G-force The NASA study previously mentioned notes that there seems to be more balance of pressure or force, known as G-force, when on the trampoline. Pressure is more evenly distributed at the ankle, back and forehead when rebounding, whereas when running, the pressure is mostly all placed on the ankles, often causing more frequent injury. That means simply switching to a trampoline workout routine can help naturally reduce joint pain and help you avoid common running injuries. 2. Strengthens Cells and Improves Cardiovascular Development A trampoline workout can provide impressive aerobic exercise benefits by strengthening the heart. When tested, the work required to perform trampoline exercise at equivalent levels of effort was significantly greater while on the trampoline than while running. Increase oxygen uptake When oxygen reaches our cells, it helps strengthen them and provide the ability to endure more exercise efficiently, and because the body is able to increase oxygen uptake when rebounding, versus some other physical activities, it’s possible to get a much better workout. Rebounding can increase oxygen uptake because more oxygen can reach the cells due to the gravity changes that occur when bouncing. In some studies, when testing on the treadmill, the ability to uptake more oxygen was greater when on the trampoline. This could allow participants to perform exercise for longer periods of time. Effects of daily short bouts of trampoline exercise A study regarding the effects of daily short bouts of trampoline exercise during eight weeks on the pulmonary function and the maximal oxygen uptake of children with cystic fibrosis was reported by the International Journal of Sports Medicine. Six girls and two boys with cystic fibrosis, 10–13.5 years of age, participated in a prescribed exercise program on a mini trampoline. The training consisted of three short rounds of trampoline exercise. The study showed that their maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) improved during the exercise period. In addition, trampoline exercise programs are suggested as other types of training to add in order to avoid monotony in the training for many patients. 3. Can Improve Immune System Function Due to Lymph Flow Rebounding can lead to increased lymph fluid circulation, which helps boost the immune system by providing a greater white blood cell activity. The lymphatic system is part of your circulatory system and transports a clear, colorless fluid, called lymph, that flushes toxins from your body. It’s believed that there is an increase in the circulation of this fluid when the lymphatic valves are opened during a change in gravitational pull. This particular change occurs upon the moment you land on the trampoline, thanks to gravity. Then, upon leaving the surface, the lymphatic valves are opened. The increased G-force g that occurs when you land causes a surge of lymphatic drainage, which improves circulation and, therefore, may help detoxify your entire system. 4. Helps with Balance Another study reported by the U.S. National Library of Medicine cited the effects of different types of exercise on postural balance in elderly women. These exercises can help prevent functional limitations due to aging, therefore reducing the risk of falls. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of three different exercises: mini trampoline, aquatic gymnastics and general floor gymnastics. Seventy-four physically independent elderly women were randomly assigned to three intervention groups. Each group performed physical training, including cardiorespiratory, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and sensory-motor exercises, for 12 weeks. To determine the effects on each intervention group, postural balance tasks were performed. The study concluded that there were significant improvements in the postural balance of elderly women after 12 weeks of training and ultimately provides further evidence that exercise, like a trampoline workout, that includes balance postures can promote health in elderly women. 5. Builds Physical Strength, Muscular Development and Proprioception for Athletes Rebounding is often said to improve physical strength and muscular development as well as proprioception, which is the ability to sense the position, location, orientation and movement of the body and its parts. A study published in the International Journal of Preventative Medicine randomly divided 20 patients with Parkinson’s disease “into two equal groups of weight-bearing exercises and rebound exercise with no significant differences in age, weight, and height.” They compared results on range of motion, proprioception and quality of life after eight weeks. The researchers found that both groups saw significant improvements in all three areas, but the improvement rate was greater across the board in the rebounding therapy group. How to Choose a Good Rebounder Because many injuries can occur while on a trampoline, it’s critical that you don’t go the cheaper route because cheaper trampolines tend to break or malfunction, causing injury. They also can lack the support needed to be effective. It’s important that your rebounder has at least 32 springs that taper at the end. This provides the proper flexibility and a more even bounce. Steel construction lasts longer, too. Some models offer support bars, which may be useful, especially for beginners or the elderly. How to Start Using Your Rebounder Rebounders, or mini trampolines, can be used almost anywhere indoors or outdoors. Remember to start slow with small jumps, and make sure you get used to the equipment before you increase to bigger jumps. A trampoline workout is one idea for burst training at home. You can include some traditional exercise, such as jumping jacks, to get you started. Rebounding is a great low-impact exercise that’s fun and different. In just 15–20 minutes a day, you can burn calories, gain muscle strength and enhance your balance while improving your immune system — and helping turn on the afterburn effect. Trampoline or Rebounding Workout Time: 20–45 minutes, depending on number of sets performed Warmup: Basic Trampoline Bounce The basic bounce can tone your quads, glutes and calf muscles. Stand on the mini trampoline with your feet shoulder-width apart. Relax your arms and shoulders but with a slight bend at the elbow. Lightly bounce up and down while keeping a slight bend in the knees. Your feet should come just a few inches off the trampoline. Repeat 20–30 times. Rest for 15 seconds, and repeat two more times for a total of three rounds. Main Set: Jumping Jacks A classic, this gets your heart rate up while engaging the inner and outer thighs. Standing with feet together, jump out while extending arms out, up and overhead. Then return to the starting position, and repeat. Perform 30–45 jumping jacks. Planks This plank exercise variation works your entire core. Start in plank position with your forearms in the middle of the trampoline and your feet on the floor (unless your trampoline is large enough for your entire body). Hold the plank position for 20–30 seconds. Release for 10 seconds, and repeat three to four times. High Knees This is a great exercise hack that gets your heart rate moving while working your core muscles. Stand with feet hip distance apart. Raise your right knee, return to start, then raise your left knee. Once you feel comfortable, begin doing it as if you are running in place. Repeat 20 times (one on each side counts as one full rep). Planks to Pushups Advanced Move This exercise works your entire core and provides some upper-body strength in the arms and chest. Keeping abs fully engaged, start in plank position with your forearms in the middle of the trampoline and your feet on the floor (unless your trampoline is large enough for your entire body). Transition to your hands one arm at a time, then do a pushup and return to your forearms for another plank. Make sure that your abs are engaged the entire time. Do this exercise for six to 10 reps. Trampoline Squats Wondering how to strengthen your core? Well, this exercise requires you to engage your core muscles. It strengthens glutes and quads as well as your core if properly engaged. Stand on the mini trampoline with your feet shoulder-width apart and arms at your sides. Jump up, and land in a squat position with your knees bent, butt back and thighs parallel to the ground, like sitting down in a chair. It may be helpful to place your arms straight out in front of you for balance. Return to the starting position, and repeat 15–20 times. At first, you may want to take it slow. Once you have mastered the exercise, you can begin to do it a bit faster with continuous movement similar to a jump squat that you would do on the ground. Repeat the entire set three to four times or as best as possible. Precautions It’s extremely important that children are always supervised when on a trampoline of any sort. The condition and quality of trampolines are critical in preventing injuries. Because there...

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New Research Warns Tattoos May Increase Cancer Risk as Ink Migrates to Lymph Nodes

The AHA! Team — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 05:03:06 +0000

Cassie B. via Natural News – New research links tattoos to a higher risk of cancer, as ink migrates to lymph nodes, potentially causing chronic inflammation and abnormal cell growth. Swedish and Danish studies found tattooed individuals had increased lymphoma and skin cancer risks, with early tattoos and large designs showing the strongest associations. Black and colored inks contain harmful chemicals, including carcinogens and toxic metals, with red ink posing additional risks when exposed to sunlight or laser removal. Laser tattoo removal may worsen the danger by breaking down ink into more toxic byproducts, tripling lymphoma risk in some cases. Experts urge vigilance for skin changes in tattooed areas and call for stricter ink regulations while emphasizing healthy lifestyle choices to mitigate risks. Self-expression through body art In an era where self-expression through body art has become mainstream, shocking new research suggests that tattoos may carry a hidden danger: a significantly increased risk of cancer. Recent studies from Sweden and Denmark reveal that tattoo ink doesn’t just stay in the skin; it migrates through the body, accumulating in lymph nodes and potentially triggering chronic inflammation that could lead to lymphoma and skin cancer. With millions of inked individuals worldwide, these findings raise urgent questions about the long-term safety of what many consider harmless self-expression. The science behind the risk When tattoo needles deposit ink into the dermis—the skin’s deeper layer—the body’s immune system perceives the foreign particles as a threat. According to Christel Nielsen, lead author of a 2024 Swedish study, “a significant portion of the injected ink is transported away from the skin by the immune system.” This process sends pigment particles to lymph nodes, where they may linger for years, disrupting immune function and potentially fueling abnormal cell growth. The Swedish study found that 21% of malignant lymphoma patients had tattoos, compared to just 17% of controls. Most alarmingly, those who got their first tattoo within two years of diagnosis faced an 81% higher lymphoma risk. Meanwhile, Danish researchers analyzing twin data discovered that individuals with large tattoos (bigger than palm-sized) had nearly three times the risk of lymphoma and 2.37 times the risk of skin cancer. Size and color matter While the Swedish study found no clear link between tattoo size and cancer risk, Danish researchers observed a dose-response relationship. “The bigger the tattoo and the longer it has been there, the more ink accumulates in the lymph nodes,” explained Signe Bedsted Clemmensen, assistant professor at the University of Southern Denmark. Black ink, often containing carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, was particularly concerning, with black or grey tattoos associated with a 23-32% higher lymphoma risk. Colored inks pose their own dangers, as they may contain toxic metals like arsenic, lead, and chromium. Red ink, notorious for allergic reactions, can release harmful compounds when exposed to sunlight or laser removal. “Current regulations on tattoo ink ingredients are not sufficient,” warned dermatologist Dr. Trisha Khanna. Laser removal may worsen the problem For those considering tattoo removal, the risks might not end there. The Swedish study found that laser-treated tattoos were associated with triple the lymphoma risk. Laser breakdown of ink chemicals, particularly azo compounds, can release even more toxic byproducts into the body. How to protect yourself For already-tattooed individuals, experts emphasize vigilance. Persistent redness, itching, or unusual skin changes within inked areas should prompt immediate dermatological evaluation. “The best thing we can do for our health, tattoos or not, is to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” Nielsen advised, endorsing plant-rich diets linked to lower cancer rates. As tattoo culture thrives, these studies underscore the need for greater transparency about ink ingredients and long-term health impacts. While personal choice remains paramount, informed consent requires acknowledging emerging risks—something the body art industry and regulators can no longer ignore. For now, people considering getting a tattoo need to know that permanent ink may come with permanent consequences. As researchers continue investigating, consumers deserve full disclosure about what’s really under their skin. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com StudyFinds.org SciTechDaily.com New.Sky.com To read the original article, click here

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Burdock Root Detoxes Blood, Lymph System and Skin

AHA Publisher — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 07:00:51 +0000

Annie Price, CHHC via Dr. Axe – What if I told you that a certain plant’s roots could detoxify your blood, lymphatic system and skin? Would you be interested? If so, you should know about burdock root. Burdock root has been valued across continents for thousands of years for its ability to purify blood and cool internal heat. Internally and externally, it has potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects on the human body. It also contains phenolic acids, quercetin and luteolin, which are all powerful, health-promoting antioxidants. Similar to dandelion tea, you can make burdock root tea, and it can also be found in supplement form or be eaten as a vegetable. What does it taste like? Burdock has a pleasantly crunchy texture and an earthy, sweet flavor that’s similar to lotus root or celeriac. Read on to find out just how awesome burdock root truly is, including the medicinal uses of burdock in treating serious chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes. What Is Burdock Root? Burdock root (genus Arctium) is a genus of biennial plants in the Asteraceae(daisy) family that’s native to Northern Asia and Europe. It’s now found throughout the U.S. as well, where it grows as a weed. In Japan, it’s often called gobo root and is cultivated as a vegetable. Burdock has large, heart-shaped leaves and bright pink-red to purple thistle-like flowers. It also has burrs that can stick to clothing or animal fur. The deep roots of the burdock plant are brownish-green or nearly black on the outside. Burdock root is a slender, brown-skinned root vegetable that typically grows to be more than two feet in length. It consists primarily of carbohydrates, volatile oils, plant sterols, tannins and fatty oils. Burdock root is not new to natural medicine. It has been used for thousands of years in Asia and Europe — and more recently in North America. In Japan, it’s a largely consumed vegetable, typically eaten fresh or cooked, and the young leaves can also be cooked like any other vegetable. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, burdock fruit has been used for thousands of years. It’s typically associated with the lung and stomach meridians, is known to cool internal heat, and is commonly used for supporting skin health. In European folk medicine, an infusion of the seeds was often employed as a diuretic, enhancing health by supporting the processes of digestion and elimination. It was also commonly used as a scalp treatment to help prevent hair loss and get rid of dandruff. What’s the difference between burdock root and dandelion root? Both are members of the Asteraceae plant family and have been used in their entirety for traditional as well modern medicine for years. Both burdock root and dandelion are excellent for diabetes and skin conditions. They’re also natural diuretics that are loaded with antioxidants. Dandelion is specifically excellent at cleansing the liver and protecting the bones, while burdock is an amazing blood cleanser, which also makes it very helpful to liver health. Burdock is also helpful for bones, particularly osteoarthritis. Dandelion is high in fiber as well as vitamins A, C and K, while burdock is equally high in fiber as well as vitamin B6, potassium and magnesium. Health Benefits The benefits of burdock root are wide-ranging and sure to impress. Much of the root’s benefits come from its nutrition content. One cup (approximately 118 grams) of raw burdock root contains about: 85 calories 20.5 grams carbohydrates 1.8 grams protein 0.2 gram fat 3.9 grams dietary fiber 0.3 milligram vitamin B6 (14 percent DV) 0.3 milligram manganese (14 percent DV) 44.8 milligrams magnesium (11 percent DV) 363 milligrams potassium (10 percent DV) 27.1 micrograms folate (7 percent DV) 3.5 milligrams vitamin C (6 percent DV) 60.2 milligrams phosphorus (6 percent DV) 48.4 milligrams calcium (5 percent DV) 0.9 milligram iron (5 percent DV) 0.1 milligram copper (5 percent DV) It’s clearly a good source of micronutrients, including vitamin B6 and manganese, but there’s more to this traditional root. Here are some of the top ways it can seriously improve your health: 1. Blood Purifier In traditional herbal texts, burdock root was described as a “blood purifier” or “alterative” and was believed to clear the bloodstream of toxins. Research on traditional medicine indicates that burdock root has active ingredients that have been found to detoxify heavy metals from the blood, improving organ health and the health of the whole body. It also promotes blood circulation to the skin surface, which improves skin health. 2. Lymphatic System Strengthener Essentially, the lymphatic system is the the body’s inner “drainage system,” a network of blood vessels and lymph nodes that carries fluids from tissues around the body into the blood and vice versa. If you can make your lymphatic system stronger, then you can help your body ward off all kinds of disease and serious health issues. Burdock root helps induce lymphatic drainage and detoxification. Research suggests that it works as a blood purifier and blood cleanser. This helps strengthen the lymphatic system. 3. Natural Diuretic Diuretics stimulate the kidneys and help the body get rid of excess fluid, mainly water and sodium. Burdock root is a natural diuretic so through burdock consumption, you can naturally and easily help your body eliminate excess water by increasing urine output. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicinefound that burdock extract shows promise as a diuretic in humans. By elevating the rate of urination, burdock root can help remove waste from the blood and body. If you have issues with fluid retention, you should ask your doctor about trying burdock root before resorting to prescription products. 4. Skin Healer Topical products containing burdock root have offered relief from pesky skin issues for ages. From acne to eczema and psoriasis, burdock root is known to calm and treat these common skin issues. Consumption of burdock has also helped many people with skin issues through its blood-cleansing and internal cooling abilities. Scientific studies have even shown that burdock extract can improve the clinical signs of aging skin. One 2008 study found that topical treatment with a natural burdock extract significantly improved the metabolism of the dermal extracellular matrix and led to a visible wrinkle reduction. For good reason, we’re likely to see burdock root used in new skin care products, especially for mature and dry skin. 5. Defends Against Diabetes Burdock root contains inulin, a soluble and prebiotic fiber that helps improve digestion and lower blood sugar. That makes it an excellent choice for people trying to naturally manage their blood sugar. In Europe, the fresh root is used for lowering blood sugar. Its inulin content makes it particularly suitable for diabetes. Animal studies have also shown burdock root’s ability to decrease the severity of diabetic complications, especially diabetic retinopathy. 6. Helps Combat Cancer European physicians of the Middle Ages and later used burdock to treat cancerous tumors (as well as skin conditions, venereal disease, and bladder and kidney problems). Many herbalists today say burdock root can stop cancer cells from metastasizing, making it a potential natural cancer treatment. In fact, animal studies of mammary, colon and pancreatic cancer have shown promise for burdock’s ability to fight against cancer. One big reason burdock shows promise for naturally fighting cancer is the fact that it contains arctigenin. Studies explain that arctigenin is a lignan found in certain plants of the Asteraceae family, including greater burdock (Arctium lappa). It has been shown to combat cancer cells by selectively stopping the proliferation of cancer cells and inhibiting the cancer cells’ production of particular proteins (NPAT proteins), hence crippling cancer’s ability to reproduce. Another study found that arctigenin was a cancer-specific phytochemical that killed human lung cancer cells, human liver cancer cells and human stomach cancer cells. Studies like this are proving what many have believed for years — that burdock root is a seriously effective natural cancer fighter. 7. Improves Arthritis Burdock root is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory abilities, and it can be in important part of an arthritis diet. A study published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases relayed that burdock root tea improved inflammatory status and oxidative stress in patients with knee osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease. Subjects were given three cups of burdock root tea per day for 42 days and were then assessed for inflammatory markers, such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. The results showed that burdock root tea can significantly help people suffering from osteoarthritis by lowering inflammatory markers. 8. Helps Treat an Enlarged Spleen If you suffer from an enlarged spleen, burdock root can help. Studies indicatethat the spleen is a vital “guardian” organ that we rely on to keep the body free from infections, viruses and all kinds of dangerous pathogens. An enlarged spleen is a clear warning sign that the immune system is fighting hard to remove threats from the body but failing to do so because it can’t keep up with high demand. Your spleen is in constant contact with your blood, so as burdock root cleanses your blood, it also cleanses and protects the spleen. It can help the spleen because it improves blood quality as well as liver health, circulation and fights inflammation. Improving those four factors has a direct positive effect on spleen health so you definitely want to include burdock in your spleen-healing lineup. 9. Fights Tonsillitis Burdock root can help get rid of painful tonsillitis. Acute tonsillitis is a type of inflammatory virus that causes tissues within the tonsils to become infected with harmful bacteria. Burdock root is used in traditional medicine to relieve tonsillitis because it increases wound healing, decreases inflammation, and helps relieve coughs, sore throats and pain. Although there’s limited evidence on its effects on tonsillitis specifically, research does indicate that burdock is an effective anti-inflammatory agent that’s used traditionally for respiratory infections like influenza and other infections. Risks and Side Effects Burdock root is considered safe when consumed as a food, which is done regularly in Asian countries. However, pregnant and nursing women should avoid burdock root, as it may cause damage to the fetus. If you’re dehydrated, you should not take burdock because the herb’s diuretic effects could make dehydration worse. Additionally, if you’re sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae plant families, which include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds and daisies, studies reveal that you could possibly experience an allergic reaction to using burdock internally or externally, including dermatitis. Since the roots of burdock closely resemble those of belladonna or deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna), there is a risk that burdock preparations may be contaminated with these potentially dangerous herbs. For this reason, you should always purchase burdock root products from established and well-respected companies. There are no known scientific reports of interactions between burdock and conventional medications. However, you should talk to your doctor before taking burdock if you take diuretics (burdock could make the effect of water pills stronger), diabetes medications (burdock might lower blood sugar, causing hypoglycemia) or blood-thinning medications (burdock can slow blood clotting and, when taken with blood-thinning medications, may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding). If you’re going to undergo any type of surgery, stop taking burdock root at least two weeks before your surgery date. Burdock might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. There are no known scientific reports on the pediatric use of burdock, so you should only give burdock to children under the supervision of a doctor. How to Use Burdock root products contain the fresh or dried root of the burdock plant. Fresh burdock root can often be found in health stores and Asian specialty stores. You can purchase fresh burdock root and include it in a vegetable stir-fry or stew. You can also peel, slice and eat it raw with a little sea salt, or you can pickle it. Burdock root should always be cleaned well and can be peeled like a carrot if you don’t like the skin on. Cleaned, dry roots can stay fresh for several months if kept in a cool and well-ventilated area. Processed parts or slices should be stored in the refrigerator and used as soon as possible. Burdock supplements can be purchased...

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Lymphatic System Found to Play Key Role in Hair Regeneration

AHA Publisher — Thu, 07 Nov 2019 16:34:50 +0000

Rockefeller University via EurekAlert – Given the amount of wear and tear it’s subjected to on a daily basis, the skin has a phenomenal ability to replenish itself. Spread throughout it are small reservoirs of stem cells, nested within supportive microenvironments called niches, which keep a tight rein on this repair process. Too much tissue might cause problems like cancer, while too little might accelerate aging. Until now, scientists were uncertain whether the stem cells themselves could instruct other stem cells to form new skin by reshaping their niche. But new research in Science, led by Elaine Fuchs, the Rebecca C. Lancefield Professor, indicates that stem cells can indeed influence tissue regeneration. The study identifies a molecular coordination tool used by stem cells to signal across niches. The researchers also discovered a new component of the niche: a specialized type of vessel called lymphatic capillaries, which transport immune cells and drain excess fluids and toxins from tissues. These capillaries form an intimate network around the stem cell niche within each hair follicle, the study showed, thereby interconnecting all its niches. “By turning the skin completely transparent,” says postdoctoral fellow Shiri Gur-Cohen, “we were able to reveal the complex architecture of this network of tubes.” Hair-follicle stem cells control the behavior of lymphatic capillaries by secreting molecules that act as an on-off switch for drainage, the scientists found, enabling them to control the composition of fluids and cells in the surrounding locale and ultimately synchronize regeneration across the tissue. “The involvement of the lymphatic system in this process is a new concept,” says Fuchs, “and might potentially provide new therapeutic targets for lymph-related conditions such as wound-healing defects and hair loss.” To read the original article click here.

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