The biology of hair diversity
March 2013
in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science”
TLDR Hair diversity is influenced by complex genetics and environmental factors, requiring more research for practical solutions.
The 2013 document provides a comprehensive look at the factors influencing hair diversity, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. It discusses the identification of genetic polymorphisms that affect hair traits, such as the gene for trichohyalin influencing hair shape and the ectodysplasin receptor family affecting hair thickness and straightness. The paper also explores the genetic components of hair greying, noting its correlation with chronological aging and its variation among ethnic groups. In terms of hair loss, the document examines the genetic underpinnings of male and female pattern baldness, the role of androgens, and the search for additional genetic loci linked to androgenetic alopecia (AGA). It also mentions the associations between hair loss and various health conditions. The role of epigenetics and microRNAs in hair biology is acknowledged, with environmental factors potentially affecting these epigenetic modifications. The document concludes that the complexity of genetics, epigenetics, and their interplay in hair diversity necessitates further research for practical applications in hair-related issues.
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