Molecular Morbidity Score: Can MicroRNAs Assess the Burden of Disease?

A potential breakthrough in hair loss treatment involves softening hair follicle stem cells, but its effectiveness in humans is uncertain. Users express skepticism, noting past successes in mice that haven't translated to human treatments.

miR-205, a tiny RNA, can stimulate hair growth by softening aging hair follicle stem cells in mice. Future tests aim to see if this can work in humans.

The conversation discusses the use of microneedling for hair loss, with concerns about potential long-term effects like fibrosis and scarring. Users share experiences and opinions on combining microneedling with treatments like minoxidil and finasteride, but there is uncertainty about the long-term safety and efficacy.

Microneedling may enhance hair loss treatment by increasing the effectiveness of topical minoxidil, especially for those lacking the necessary enzyme to activate it. It might also work by triggering growth factors and improving topical absorption.

MCL-1 protein may help maintain hair follicles in the growth phase and prevent miniaturization. There is interest in experimental treatments like exosomes, peptides, or stem cell serums to upregulate MCL-1 for hair loss, especially for those not using minoxidil or finasteride.

The user has been using topical finasteride and minoxidil for two years with decent regrowth and recently added microneedling to their routine. They are questioning if the small hairs observed are new regrowth from microneedling or just vellus or miniaturized hairs.