Could a cure for baldness be on the hairline horizon?
Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered a “biological mechanism” for hair thinning. The research team hopes their findings could lead to treatments for baldness in the near future.
A British research team discovered the link while testing a drug to see if it effectively strengthens hair follicles on the human scalp.
85% of men and 70% of women experience hair thinning as they age. Looker_Studio – Stock.adobe.com
Researchers have discovered that overactivation of a mechanism called the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) can negatively impact hair growth. This response indicates that when cells encounter stressful situations, they may suspend their normal activity and become partially dormant to relieve strain.
For example, as we age, follicular cells become stressed and grow more slowly. However, overactivated IRS can cause cell death and stop hair growth rather than slowing it down.
Therefore, finding ways to stop ISR overactivation may provide a path to preventing hair loss.
Stressed cells can be the cause of hair loss. Africa Studio – Stock.adobe.com
Dr Talveen Purba, senior author of the study, said: To new treatments. ”
Purba and the team in Manchester are studying ISR activity in people with hair loss to better understand its effects on hair follicles.
“When you look at hair follicles under a microscope, it’s amazing how consistent the responses are between hair follicles in different people,” said Derek Pye, the research group’s lead engineer and co-author of the study. ” reported.
Stress on your hair follicles can lead to cell death. New Africa – Stock.adobe.com
The ultimate goal is to develop a drug that prevents hair loss.
According to Purba, there are currently no drugs available that are known to affect ISR, but there are several drugs being studied in other settings.
In 2022, a team of Japanese researchers has successfully grown mature hair follicles in the lab, which could be a new step forward in the fight against hair loss.
By the time they reach middle age, approximately 85% of men will be affected by hair loss. Comparatively, by the age of 70, half of women suffer from it. Despite this staggering prevalence, few treatments are available.
New research has shed some promising light on hair loss prevention. vfhnb12 – Stock.adobe.com
Topical minoxidil, the active ingredient in Rogaine, is often used to treat hair loss. Propecia, a prescription hair loss drug also known by its generic name finasteride, has made headlines for its brutal side effects, including depression, erectile dysfunction, loss of sex drive, and suicidal thoughts (just kidding).
People who suffer from hair loss choose laser treatment or transplant surgery. Anti-aging guru Brian Johnson swears by a three-pronged approach: red light therapy, microneedling, and topical treatments.
