MicroRNA: Scientists Discover Potential Treatment for Baldness

In a study published in the journal PNAS, researchers from Northwestern Medicine have found that a tiny RNA particle, known as microRNA-205 (miR-205), can stimulate hair growth in aging hair follicles.

The study, which was conducted in mice, found that miR-205 can soften the stiffness of aging hair follicle stem cells, which allows them to divide and produce new hair follicles.

“We are stimulating the existing stem cells to grow hair,” said Rui Yi, PhD, a professor of pathology and dermatology at Northwestern’s Feinberg School of Medicine in Illinois and a senior author of the study. “A lot of times we still have stem cells, but they may not be able to generate the hair.”

The researchers found that miR-205 could be delivered to the hair follicles using nanoparticles. They are now planning to test the effectiveness of miR-205 in stimulating hair growth in human trials.

“Our study demonstrates the possibility of stimulating hair growth by regulating cell mechanics,” said Yi. “If successful, this could lead to new treatments for hair loss and baldness.”

The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Other potential treatments for hair loss

In addition to miR-205, there are a number of other potential treatments for hair loss that are currently being investigated. These include:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP is a blood-derived treatment that contains growth factors that can stimulate hair growth.
• Minoxidil (Rogaine): Minoxidil is a topical medication that can promote hair growth.
• Finasteride (Propecia): Finasteride is a oral medication that can block the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can cause hair loss.

If you are concerned about hair loss, it is important to talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you.

Related Stories:

Osteopontin: Scientists Discover Molecular Trigger for Hair Growth How To Treat Male Pattern Baldness? Potential Cure for Baldness: Discovery of Chemical Controlling Life and Death in Hair Follicles NASA Confirms Launch Date for Its Massive Moon Rocket Locks of Resilience: A Holistic Approach to Hair Wellness with Innovative Hair Loss Treatment, Online Haircare Products, and Expert Tips Sonam Bajwa: Acting and Dressing the Fashion Supernova China Takes Incredible Close Up Shot of Mars’ Moon Phobos Shanaya Kapoor’s Mirror Magic: A Sizzling Ramp Walk Leaves Netizens in Awe