Impact of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and Mitogen-Activated Kinase Inhibition on Hair Follicles: Partial Hair Follicle Immune Privilege Collapse and Excessive Interleukin-33 Secretion

The study investigates the effects of inhibiting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) on hair follicles (HFs). It was found that such inhibition leads to a partial collapse of the hair follicle's immune privilege and an excessive secretion of interleukin-33 (IL-33). This suggests that EGFR and MEK play crucial roles in maintaining hair follicle immune privilege and regulating IL-33 levels, which are important for hair follicle health and function. The findings highlight potential implications for understanding hair loss mechanisms and developing targeted therapies.