LB789 Novel IFNγ Aptamer TAGX-0003 Protected Hair Follicles from Immune Privilege Collapse and Reversed Alopecia Areata-Like Phenotype in Humanized Mouse Model

The study investigates the efficacy of a novel IFNγ aptamer, TAGX-0003, in protecting hair follicles from immune privilege collapse and reversing the alopecia areata (AA) phenotype in a humanized mouse model. AA is driven by IFNγ accumulation in hair follicles, leading to a Th1 autoimmune response and hair follicle dystrophy. Current treatments include steroids and minoxidil, with some JAK inhibitors showing promise in clinical trials. The novel aptamer TAGX-0003 demonstrated potential in mitigating the autoimmune response and preserving hair follicle integrity in the model.