Molecule Found in Mice May Stimulate Hair Growth
I’m excited to share some interesting news this week. Recently, researchers at Stanford University’s School of Medicine announced the discovery of a molecule that drives hair follicle growth in mice. The study, published in the August issue of the “Journal of Genes and Development,” explains that the molecule, called laminin-511, acts as an operator, transferring proteins between layers of skin and causing hair follicles to grow. The researchers believe that laminin-511 might one day be used to treat hair loss, stating that injecting the molecule between the inner and outer layer of the skin could possibly promote hair growth. However, more clinical trials are necessary to show how humans will react to the treatment.
This research clearly shows how important hair loss is to the 80 million men and women suffering from male or female pattern baldness. The fact that new treatments are always being investigated gives me piece of mind that the field of hair restoration is at the forefront of medical research. In particular, the study demonstrates that there is hope for individuals with poor donor areas or for folks who may not want surgical intervention. But, as with any new potential treatment, the use of this treatment will be many years away.
I’ll keep you posted as this and other important research in the field progresses. For now, medical treatments, low level laser light therapy, and surgical hair restoration are proven to be effective in treating hair loss.
Cheers!
Doc