Comparative Studies of Hair Shaft Components Between Healthy and Diseased Donors

This study aimed to develop a new health index and diagnostic method by analyzing minerals and free amino acids in hair shafts. Researchers compared these components between healthy individuals and those with various diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, androgenetic alopecia, major depressive disorder, Alzheimer’s disease, and stroke. Initial statistical analysis using a student’s t test showed significant differences due to the large sample size of the healthy group. By using effect size analysis, which is not influenced by sample size differences, the researchers identified specific minerals and amino acids associated with each disease. For diabetes, the analysis narrowed down the relevant minerals to Cr, Mn, and Hg, and the amino acids to Gly, His, Lys, Pro, Ser, Thr, and Val. This method also helped identify potential health indicators and disease-related components for other conditions.