Autophagy And Premature Graying Of Hair: The Role Of LC3 As A Biomarker In A Case-Control Study

    April 2025 in “ Dermatology Practical & Conceptual ”
    Wafaa Mohamed Abd-Elmaged, Khaleda S Amr, Hoda A. Ahmed, Dina Ali, Amr Abdelhamed
    TLDR Increased LC3 gene expression may be linked to premature graying of hair.
    This study investigated the relationship between premature graying of hair (PGH) and autophagy by examining LC3 gene expression and serum concentration in 39 PGH patients and 21 controls. Results showed a significant increase in LC3 gene expression in PGH patients compared to controls, with a mean expression level of 5.1±1.4 versus 0.71±0.3, respectively. A strong positive correlation was found between LC3 concentration and gene expression in both groups. Multivariate analysis identified LC3 gene expression as the sole predictor of PGH, suggesting that autophagy, as indicated by LC3 expression, may play a role in the development of PGH.
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