Researchers Grow Hair Using Stem Cells, Publish Findings

It’s estimated that hair loss affects nearly 80 million men and women across the United States. It’s a serious medical condition that often leads to low self esteem, tattered self confidence, and sometimes even depression among both males and females. Moreover, hair loss can be a sign that other serious illnesses are lurking elsewhere in the body. In recent years, studies have shown that individuals who exhibit signs of hair loss are more likely to suffer with heart and prostate conditions later in life.

For these reasons and more, men and women are urged to consult with a physician immediately upon noticing signs of hair loss. Today, hair restoration may include several different techniques designed to reverse the signs of thinning, shedding, and balding.

Hair transplants are among the most sought-after hair loss treatments. In recent years, celebrities and professional athletes have publicly endorsed hair transplant surgery on both television and Twitter, showing fans and followers impeccable before and after photos that clearly show natural results. In the United States, NFL player Wes Welker became one of the first to endorse his hair transplant surgeon. In the UK, footballer Wayne Rooney took to Twitter to share his transplant experience with fans. And in the past year, hair transplant procedures of increased a reported 85% worldwide.

Stem Cell Treatment for Baldness

Though more studies are needed before a “stem cell cure for baldness” is ready for humans, researchers are reporting success in using such treatments on laboratory mice. In a study published in PLOS ONE, a team lead by Dr. Alexey Terskikh, PhD, found that human pluripotent stem cells (HPSCs) could be effectively programmed to form into derma papilla cells, special structures that are known to induce control over the growth cycle of the hair follicle. Following transplant to laboratory mice, the HSPCs grew new hair, giving researchers hope that the same process could one day be replicated with humans.

Specifically, this new discovery might aid hair transplant patients who perhaps lack available donor hair. “Our stem cell method provides an unlimited source of cells for the patient for transplantation,” says Dr. Terskikh. “And isn’t limited by the availability of existing hair follicles [donor hair].”