Exploring The Therapeutic Potential Of DHODH Inhibitor Farudodstat For Alopecia Areata Treatment In A Novel Ex Vivo Model Of Human Hair Follicle Immune Privilege Collapse

This study explores the potential of the DHODH inhibitor farudodstat as a treatment for alopecia areata (AA) using a novel ex vivo model. AA is characterized by immune privilege (IP) collapse in hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The model involved treating healthy human scalp hair follicles with an antibody cocktail to activate T-cells and mimic AA features. Farudodstat was found to protect hair follicles from increased T-cell proliferation and MHC I and II protein expression, which are indicative of IP collapse. Importantly, farudodstat did not cause cytotoxicity or promote the catagen phase, suggesting it could be a promising therapeutic approach for AA without adverse effects on hair follicle health.