gene patterns which set the hair loss sufferers apart from the others

More evidence that hair loss in both men and women is due to individual genetic makeups has been produced by researchers. A study led by Professor Angela Christiano from Columbia University in New York looked specifically at alopecia areata, a rare type of hair loss which is often aggravated by stress.

Over 4000 individuals took part in the study of which over 1000 were diagnosed with alopecia areata. By examining their genetic makeup the researchers looked out for gene patterns which set the hair loss sufferers apart from the others. In all they identified eight genes which they said are directly connected to alopecia areata and also noted that these particular genes are linked to other autoimmune illnesses such as Type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

The researchers noted that those individuals who had all eight of the identified genetic structures were significantly more likely to end up suffering from bad cases of alopecia areata which could involve complete hair loss, [alopecia totalis] meaning that the hair loss even involved eyelashes and eyebrows.

The researchers who published their research in the clinical journal Nature singled out one particular gene called ULBP3 which they said was able to direct toxic cells to towards hair follicles thus destroying their roots and making them fall out. The next thing that happened was that the immune system kicked in and T cells moved to the region of the affected follicles stopping any regrowth of hair.

In the future it is likely that all hair loss treatment for both men and women will be dealt with on a genetic level.  Male pattern baldness, which is the most common type of hair loss worldwide, is caused by clear genetic factors and any remedy which does not take this into account won't work. The hair loss drug Propecia made by Merck works by preventing the genetically generated buildup of dihydrotestosterone in the scalp and produces impressive results in most men.