The Biology And Genetics Of Curly Hair

March 2017 in “ Experimental Dermatology ”

Gillian E. Westgate, Rebecca S. Ginger, Martin R. Green

trichohyalin copper transporter protein CUTC keratin 74 genome-wide association study GWAS polymorphic variations

TLDR Curly hair is influenced by specific genetic variations.

The document examined the biology and genetics of curly hair, focusing on structural and molecular factors that contributed to hair curliness. It highlighted the elliptical shape of curly hair fibers and the role of the hair follicle's asymmetrical structure, with specific proteins and genetic polymorphisms influencing curl formation. The study identified key genes like EDAR, trichohyalin, and PRSS53, with the CANDELA cohort study of 6,630 individuals underscoring their significance. It also emphasized the inner root sheath's role in determining hair shape, supported by genetic links to proteins like KRT74 and TCHH. The research suggested that hair curl variation, particularly in South African populations, is a complex trait influenced by multiple genes and possibly environmental factors.

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