April 2018 in “bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory)” Researchers identified a variant (rs142986308, p.Arg587Trp) in the CCHCR1 gene within the MHC risk haplotype associated with alopecia areata (AA). Using CRISPR/Cas9, they engineered mice to carry this risk allele, which resulted in patched hair loss similar to AA symptoms. Skin biopsies from these mice showed up-regulation of hair-related genes, including keratin and keratin-associated proteins. Transcriptomics revealed CCHCR1 as a novel component of hair shafts and cuticles, suggesting that aberrant keratinization might be an alternative mechanism for AA, alongside known autoimmune factors.
2 citations,
July 2022 in “Cell Regeneration” Understanding hair growth involves complex factors, and more research is needed to improve treatments for hair loss conditions.
20 citations,
June 2010 in “Genes and Immunity” Blood tests can help understand the genetic differences in people with alopecia areata, including how severe it is and if it's inherited.
13 citations,
October 2011 in “Clinical and Experimental Dermatology” Laser hair-comb therapy doesn't improve male-pattern hair loss.
Researchers found a genetic link for hereditary hair loss but need more analysis to identify the exact gene.