TLDR The study developed a method to analyze ancient hair proteins using very small samples.
The study developed an optimized proteomic approach to analyze ancient hair proteins, specifically keratins, using minimal raw material. By testing and adapting three protocols and nanoLC-MS/MS parameters on modern hair, the researchers identified the most effective workflow. This method was successfully applied to a 3880-year-old archeological hair sample, identifying 11 ancient hair proteins from just 500 μg of material. The findings provided insights into hair protein preservation and could facilitate future applications requiring small sample amounts in both archeometrical and other scientific studies.
16 citations,
January 2015 in “Forensic science international” The hair of two ancient Chilean mummies is well-preserved and contains high levels of heavy metals.
38 citations,
October 2011 in “Analytical biochemistry” Hair proteins have weak spots in their α-helical segments.
8 citations,
May 2008 in “Applied surface science” Mummy hair from the Taklamakan desert has calcium and phosphorus inside.
203 citations,
June 2003 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Human hair, despite its different types, shares common traits that affect its structure and response to treatments.
38 citations,
October 2011 in “Analytical biochemistry” Hair proteins have weak spots in their α-helical segments.
54 citations,
January 2018 in “Scientific reports” Human hair contains diverse proteins, including keratins and histones, which could help assess hair health and aging.
9 citations,
March 2019 in “Molecular & cellular proteomics” Reductive stress messes up collagen balance and alters cell signaling in human skin cells, which could help treat certain skin diseases.
45 citations,
June 2018 in “Frontiers in immunology” MDSC-Exo can treat autoimmune alopecia areata and promote hair regrowth in mice.
The research found that people's hair proteins vary, especially by ethnicity and body part, which could help identify individuals in forensic science.
