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MicroRNA Research Could Lead to Hair Loss Cure
by April Maguire
Experts estimate that roughly 60% of men will experience hair loss at some point in their lives. Yet despite all of the shampoos, medications and creams, there are still no viable cures for hair loss. Recently though, a team of scientists who have been studying the mechanics of hair loss at a genetic level found that a single microRNA could hold the key to reversing premature baldness.
Studying MicroRNA
In order to fight hair loss better, scientists are striving to learn as much as they can about what causes it. This search for the root cause of hair loss has led many scientists to examine microRNA, also known as miRNA. Put simply, miRNA are molecules in our body that help to regulate our genetics and determine the ways in which our bodies develop. Now, some scientists believe that one of these miRNAs, miR-22, could be a major contributor to hair loss.
How Hair Loss Happens
The cycle of hair growth consists of three basic phases: growth, transition and resting. The growing phase lasts for a number of years. This phase is crucial in regulating the health of your hair, and it’s during this time that the length and width of hair are determined. Next comes the transition phase, where the hair detaches from the root and moves up to the scalp. And the final part of the hair cycle is the resting phase, wherein the existing hair begins to be shed as new hair forms in its place.
Most hair loss occurs when follicles begin the resting phase too early. As a result of this premature resting, hairs become thinner and follicles stop producing new hairs, leading to noticeable bald patches. But why do follicles sometimes begin the resting phase prematurely? The answer could lie in miR-22.
Hair Loss in Mice
In order to determine what part miR-22 plays in hair loss, a team of scientists recently engineered a group of mice with an overexpression of that particular microRNA. What these researchers found was that the increased activity of miR-22 directly led to the mice’s hair entering a premature resting phase, resulting in the same type of premature baldness that occurs in humans. Additionally, the team found that increased activity in miR-22 led to a dampening of certain genetic factors that help to promote hair growth.
More testing will need to be performed in order to determine exactly how miR-22 and other microRNA molecules impact hair loss. But the more that we understand about hair loss, the more we can do to stop it.
If you or someone you know would like more information about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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