Alopecia Areata Research: An Overview
Scientists now have a better understanding of this disease. It is hoped that this will lead the way to better treatments and eventually, a way to prevent or even cure
alopecia areata.
Research on this condition ranges from basic studies of hair growth and hair loss in mice to testing medications and ways to apply medications to help re-grow hair in people. Some promising areas of research on alopecia areata include:
- Developing an animal model
- Mapping genes
- Targeting the immune system
- Finding better ways to administer drugs
- Understanding cytokines
- Understanding stem cell biology.
Developing an Animal Model for Researching Alopecia Areata
Developing an animal model is a critical first step toward
understanding alopecia areata. Research scientists hope to use the animal model to learn more about the mechanism of the disease and to eventually develop
alopecia areata treatment that will target the immune system.
Research teams are studying the possible genetic causes and mechanisms of alopecia areata in families where one or more people has the disease. These causes and mechanisms are also being studied in the general population. Understanding the genetics of alopecia areata will aid in disease prevention, early intervention, and development of specific
alopecia areata treatment.
Studying Hair Follicle Development
By studying how hair follicles form in mouse embryos, research scientists hope to gain a better understanding of hair cycle biology, which may lead to treatments for the underlying disease process.
