TLDR Researchers found a new area on chromosome 2 linked to a genetic hair loss condition.
The study identified a new genetic locus on chromosome 2q31.1-q32.2 associated with autosomal recessive hereditary hypotrichosis, a condition leading to reduced or absent hair, by examining a large Pakistani family with varying degrees of hair loss. Using the Affymetrix GeneChip Genome-Wide Human SNP 250K array for whole-genome SNP genotyping, researchers excluded linkage to known genes and loci for similar conditions and pinpointed a 10.85 Mb homozygous region linked to the disorder, with several SNP markers within this region yielding a multipoint LOD score over 3.0. Despite sequencing three candidate genes (ITGA6, PRKRA, ATF2) within this interval, no pathogenic variants were found, indicating the need for further exome sequencing to identify the causative gene. The specific gene responsible for hereditary hypotrichosis at this locus remains undiscovered, and the number of participants in the study was not mentioned.
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January 2013 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Four genetic risk spots found for hair loss, with WNT signaling involved and a link to curly hair.
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November 2006 in “Science” A genetic mutation in the LIPH gene causes hair loss and growth defects.
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January 1998 in “Science” The study investigated a kindred with a rare, recessively inherited type of alopecia universalis to identify the genetic basis of this condition. Through homozygosity mapping, researchers established linkage in a 6-centimorgan interval on chromosome 8p12, with a significant logarithm of the odds score of 6.19. They identified a missense mutation in the human homolog of the murine hairless gene within this interval. The human hairless gene encodes a putative single zinc finger transcription factor protein, which is expressed in the brain and skin, suggesting its role in the development of alopecia universalis.
May 2018 in “Journal of cosmetology & trichology” Combining platelet-rich plasma therapy with prostaglandin-F eye drops can significantly regrow hair in alopecia universalis.
The article concludes that understanding the causes of hair loss and using continuous treatments like minoxidil and finasteride can help manage it, despite potential side effects.
June 2001 in “European Journal of Dermatology” A 54-year-old woman experienced progressive hair loss starting in adolescence, leading to sparse scalp hair and almost no eyebrows or eyelashes.
November 2000 in “Current problems in dermatology” New treatments for hair loss and excessive hair growth show promise with few side effects and advancements in laser technology.
