A new genomic study of baldness coming out the University of Edinburgh has identified 287 genetic regions related to hair loss. This study is significant because before this study only a few genetic regions were known to affect hair loss. Now we know that the genetic predisposition is more complicated than previously thought.
Genomic Research on Hair Loss
What’s also significant here is that the study was quite large with 52,000 participants. Studies that include more participants are usually more significant. This is the largest study of male pattern baldness to date.
Saskia Hagenaars, a Ph.D. student from University of Edinburgh, who jointly led the study, noted that interestingly, many of the genetic signals were found to be located on the X chromosome (or coming from the mother’s side of things.)
The study’s lead investigator, Dr. Riccardo Marioni, said that we're staying a ways away from being able to predict hair loss, but this study takes us one step closer.
Dr. David Hill, another researcher on the study, said that this particular study did not look at age of onset of hair loss. He expects that when the age of hair loss is examined, the genetic signals noted will be even clearer.
One of the things that are very important about hair loss research is that—aside from the potentially devastating psychological effects of hair loss—baldness is phenotypically related to some different medical issues like prostate cancer and heart disease. Being able to predict hair loss could also mean being able to predict these other illnesses.
When you are reading about research in the world of hair loss and hair regrowth, keep in mind that there are already some treatments that actually work, are supported by hard science, and are approved by the FDA, like Low-Level Laser Light Therapy (LLLT) and our laser caps. If you are suffering from hair loss, do not despair.
We are here for you when you’re ready to start treatment for hair loss.
If you have any questions about treatment for hair loss or any of our products, we encourage you to call us directly at (844) 280-4680.