In the News – Alopecia Areata Genes Discovered
Snippet from the article:
Researchers have implicated eight genes in the development of alopecia areata, a disorder that causes hair to thin and fall out.
The genes are already associated with other autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes, meaning that drugs may already be in the pipeline that could benefit people with hair loss, the researchers said.
“This greatly accelerated our ability to think about new drugs for patients with alopecia areata because so much work has already been done in these other diseases,” said senior study author Angela Christiano, professor of dermatology and genetics & development at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City. “It is a huge advantage.”
Read the full story — Genes Tied to Hair Loss Disorder
This is a fantastic breakthrough and will hopefully lead to treatments for this disease. For more about alopecia areata, see the National Alopecia Areata Foundation.
More info about this new discovery might be in the articles at LA Times and CNN.
This is outstanding news! I feel for the people with this disease (children especially). I understand Christopher Reeves “Superman” had this disease. All these specific genes being discovered for various problems is a step in the right direction.
Yes it’s very exciting news. It’s all coming together!
Hopefully in another 2 or 3 years the magic hair potion will be available for men and woman alike.
Chop chop adreans. Chop chop histogen!!
Is it safe to assume that this is good news for those who are suffering from alopecia as well?