Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia Beyond Cytotoxicity: Hair Follicle Immune Privilege Collapse and JAK-STAT Signaling

This review explores the complex pathogenesis of chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA), suggesting it is driven by the collapse of hair follicle immune privilege, similar to alopecia areata. It highlights the role of immune-mediated mechanisms, particularly the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, in CIA. The review evaluates Janus kinase inhibitors as potential treatments but notes the need for caution due to possible immunosuppression and cancer risks. It also discusses the dual roles of cytokines like IL-15 and IL-1 in hair follicle homeostasis and inflammation, proposing future research directions for safe therapeutic strategies that do not compromise cancer treatment.