Expression of Extracellular Matrix in Hair Follicle Mesenchyme in Alopecia Areata

    December 1990 in “ British Journal of Dermatology ”
    A.J.G. McDonagh, Lisa Cawood, Andrew G. Messenger
    TLDR Alopecia areata may involve disrupted mesenchymal function in hair follicles.
    The study investigated the expression of extracellular matrix constituents in scalp biopsies from 14 patients with alopecia areata. It found that while non-lesional scalp follicles and miniature anagen follicles from bald patches showed normal expression of basement membrane proteins and proteoglycans, some large anagen follicles from lesional sites exhibited a loss of normal staining for chondroitin-6-sulphate in the dermal papilla. Additionally, lesional catagen follicles displayed marked convolution and thickening of the glassy membranes, which stained strongly for laminin and type IV collagen but weakly for interstitial collagens. This suggested a disturbance in mesenchymal function in alopecia areata.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    3 / 3 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community The Worst Hair Loss Condition You (MAY) have: LPP

      in Research/Science  43 upvotes 1 year ago
      Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is an autoimmune condition causing permanent hair loss and fibrosis, often misdiagnosed. Treatments include pioglitazone, topical corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory medication, and Jak inhibitors.

      community Alopecia Areata Question

      in Treatment  2 upvotes 4 years ago
      A user with alopecia totalis, borderline universalis, seeks advice on getting into a Xeljanz trial or appealing insurance for coverage. They experienced significant hair regrowth but are now seeing hair loss again and want to try Xeljanz.

      community mbp alopecia areata or vitamin deficiency

      in Chat 1 year ago
      A 19-year-old male has been using topical finasteride and minoxidil for 8 months with no progress and is considering seeking a second opinion due to potential misdiagnosis. The discussion revolves around whether the hair loss is due to male pattern baldness, alopecia areata, or a vitamin deficiency.

      community Olumiant alternative for Alopecia Areata?

      in Treatment  1 upvotes 2 years ago
      A user with alopecia areata is considering treatment options like injections or Olumiant but is concerned about cost and whether delaying treatment will lead to permanent hair loss. They are seeking alternative treatments that are more affordable for a college student.

    Related Research

    5 / 5 results