A New Technique for Quantitative Analysis of Hair Loss in Mice Using Grayscale Analysis

In 2015, researchers introduced a new method for measuring hair loss in mice using grayscale analysis. This technique utilized a standard gel imager to capture images and measure light absorption, which is indicative of the amount of pigmented hair present. The method was validated on C57BL/6 and C3H/HeJ mouse strains and was tested in models of chemotherapy-induced alopecia and alopecia areata. The study showed that the grayscale measurements were precise and consistent, suitable for tracking gradual hair loss. An interim analysis within the study demonstrated significant hair loss in C57BL/6 mice treated with cyclophosphamide compared to controls, with grayscale analysis confirming the difference (p < 0.05). Although the method requires manual adjustments for image exposure variations and does not directly measure hair quantity, it provides a standardized approach for evaluating hair loss and the efficacy of treatments, which could help in developing better therapies for alopecia.