TLDR Hair loss in men may be caused by inflammation triggered by hormones, and treatments reducing inflammation could potentially promote hair growth.
The 2012 study by Marty E. Sawaya explored the role of inflammation and androgens in androgenetic alopecia (AGA), a common form of hair loss in men. The research suggested that androgens might trigger inflammation by activating the innate immune system, influencing the hair growth cycle. Inflammatory cells were found surrounding hair follicles in men with AGA. The study also found that finasteride, a treatment for AGA, decreased the expression of caspase-1, a component of the innate immune response, in men who experienced successful hair growth. This suggests that inflammation is an early event in AGA. The research also discussed the potential for future therapeutic strategies targeting the inflammasome pathway. The document also mentioned a study involving 2,846 rheumatoid arthritis patients who responded well to anakinra, a recombinant human IL-1 receptor antagonist, and suggested that future therapies involving IIR could potentially treat hair and skin diseases.
27 citations,
July 2012 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Higher caspase-1 levels found in balding scalps; reducing it may help treat hair loss.
466 citations,
June 2009 in “Experimental dermatology” We now understand more about what causes acne and this could lead to better, more personalized treatments.
21 citations,
January 2002 in “Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” Finasteride affects hair growth by changing caspase and XIAP levels, potentially treating hair diseases.
416 citations,
September 1997 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” People with hair loss have more androgen receptors and enzymes in certain follicles, with men and women showing different patterns.
24 citations,
January 2018 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Androgenetic alopecia is mainly caused by genetic factors and increased androgen activity, leading to hair follicle miniaturization.
8 citations,
November 2017 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” AGA linked to inflammation, stress, fibrosis, and disturbed hair follicle stem cells.
11 citations,
September 2013 in “Journal of the Egyptian Women's Dermatologic Society (Print)” Various treatments exist for hair loss, but more research is needed for better options.
11 citations,
November 2012 in “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” Genetic factors affect hair loss, and molecular testing may help predict, diagnose, and treat it.
February 2009 in “Journal of Drugs in Dermatology” January 2008 in “Journal of Practical Dermatology” 
50 citations,
March 2001 in “Clinics in Dermatology” Genes and hormones cause hair loss, with four genes contributing equally.
