great read. thanks
“In a sense, by blocking NFATc1 activity in our older mice, their hair follicles were brought back to what appeared to be a more youthful state.”
So far, these proliferating stem cells lacking NFATc1 have not led to increased tumor formation, which is often a dangerous byproduct of triggering stem cells into action. “This is the first case where we have been able to activate the hair cycle without accompanying signs of tumorigenesis,” says Fuchs. “If we can control the activation process of follicle stem cells without promoting tumorigenesis, then this would be a big move in the right direction.”
I really like the sound of this one. Usually E. Fuchs is really careful to insinuate that this could be a viable treatment soon, here she seems to be very optimistic that this could have real consequences in the near future. This begs the question then: what about taking cyclosporin A to help our hairloss until a more specific inhibitor is found? Have to do some literature research on that. Thanks for the update Saturn!
» http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/080124132512.htm