Autoantigen Discovery in the Hair Loss Disorder, Alopecia Areata: Implications of Post-Translational Modifications

Alopecia areata (AA) is a complex hair loss disorder where the exact factors triggering the disease are not fully understood. It involves an immune response to hair follicle-associated antigens, but it is unclear whether this is due to an abnormal response to unmodified self-antigens, a normal response to modified self-antigens, or a response to previously hidden self-antigens that are now exposed. While trichohyalin has been identified as a potential target antigen in AA, its role as the primary antigenic trigger is uncertain. Understanding the identity of the autoantigens involved in AA is crucial for developing effective treatments. Research into other autoimmune diseases suggests that post-translational modifications of proteins may play a role in increasing their antigenicity and contributing to the immune attack on hair follicles in AA.