TLDR Aire mutation reduces alopecia areata, while Notch4 mutation prevents it in mice.
This study examined the effects of Aire and Notch4 gene mutations on alopecia areata (AA) in C3H/HeJ mice. Two congenic strains were developed: one with a null Aire mutation and another expressing only the extracellular domain of Notch4. The Aire mutation reduced AA frequency, suggesting a protective effect, while the Notch4 mutation did not lead to AA development, likely due to its linkage with the H2b resistance gene. These results indicate that these mutations do not increase AA severity and may even reduce or prevent it, underscoring the complexity of genetic factors in AA.
57 citations
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August 2023 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” JAK inhibitors and platelet-rich plasma show promise for treating alopecia areata.
13 citations
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September 2022 in “Frontiers in immunology” Ifidancitinib, a JAK inhibitor, effectively regrows hair in mice with alopecia by tiring out harmful T cells.
701 citations
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August 2014 in “Nature medicine” Alopecia areata can be reversed by JAK inhibitors, promoting hair regrowth.
56 citations
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September 2010 in “Veterinary pathology” Certain mouse strains develop a skin condition similar to a human hair loss disease due to genetic defects.
253 citations
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December 2007 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Hair follicles prevent NK cell attacks to avoid hair loss.
86 citations
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December 2002 in “Tissue Antigens” A specific gene change is linked to severe hair loss.
178 citations
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June 1994 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Alopecia areata in these mice is inherited, more common in young females, and can be treated with triamcinolone acetonide.
