TLDR FGF13 gene changes cause excessive hair growth in a rare condition.
The study investigated the genetic basis of X-linked congenital generalized hypertrichosis (CGH) in a large Mexican family, focusing on the FGF13 gene. Researchers identified a 389-kb interchromosomal insertion at Xq27.1 that cosegregated with the disease, leading to significantly reduced FGF13 mRNA levels in affected individuals. Histological and molecular analyses, including immunofluorescence staining and qRT-PCR, showed decreased FGF13 localization in the outer root sheath of hair follicles. The study, which included samples from 26 family members, suggested that the altered expression of FGF13 influenced hair follicle growth and the hair cycle, contributing to the hypertrichosis phenotype.
60 citations,
August 2008 in “Human molecular genetics online/Human molecular genetics” A position effect on the TRPS1 gene causes excessive hair growth in humans and mice.
73 citations,
June 2006 in “Animal genetics” The FGF5 gene determines hair length in dogs.
550 citations,
December 2005 in “The Journal of clinical investigation/The journal of clinical investigation” Researchers successfully isolated and identified key markers of stem cell-enriched human hair follicle bulge cells.
520 citations,
February 2001 in “Journal of Clinical Investigation” VEGF helps hair grow and determines follicle size by increasing blood vessel growth.
271 citations,
March 1999 in “Developmental biology” The research shows that a gene called Wnt3 affects hair growth and structure, causing short hair and balding when overactive.
125 citations,
February 2003 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” The document explains the types of excessive hair growth and how to manage it.
24 citations,
May 1982 in “Biochemical Pharmacology” These drugs cause hair growth without affecting testosterone or adrenal hormones.