The Gut Microbiome And Alopecia Areata: Implications For Early Diagnostic Biomarkers And Novel Therapies

September 2022 in “ Frontiers in Nutrition ”

Yongbo Kang, Yue Cai, Yanqin Zhao, Ying Yang

Alopecia areata autoimmune disorder T cell-mediated attacks hair follicles gut microbiota immunoregulation fecal microbial transplantation diagnostic biomarkers AA FMT

TLDR Gut bacteria differences may help diagnose and treat Alopecia areata.

Recent research suggests a significant relationship between gut microbiota and Alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune disorder causing hair loss. Studies have identified specific gut microbial differences in AA patients compared to healthy controls, indicating potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and novel therapeutic targets. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has shown promise in preliminary cases, with some AA patients experiencing hair regrowth post-FMT. However, more comprehensive research is needed to understand the gut microbiota-host interaction, develop precise diagnostic tools, and establish effective FMT protocols for AA treatment.

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research Hair Regrowth Following Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in an Elderly Patient with Alopecia Areata: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

40 citations , September 2019 in “World journal of clinical cases”

An elderly man's hair grew back after a treatment that transferred healthy gut bacteria.

research Assessment of a Bidirectional Association Between Major Depressive Disorder and Alopecia Areata

37 citations , January 2019 in “JAMA Dermatology”

People with Major Depressive Disorder have a higher chance of getting Alopecia Areata, and vice versa; antidepressants may lower this risk.

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191 citations , May 2018 in “British journal of dermatology/British journal of dermatology, Supplement”

Alopecia areata is likely an autoimmune disease with unclear triggers, involving various immune cells and molecules, and currently has no cure.

research The Changing Landscape of Alopecia Areata: The Translational Landscape

16 citations , June 2017 in “Advances in Therapy”

New treatments for hair loss are showing promise due to better understanding of genetics and the immune system.

research Alopecia Areata Increases the Risk of Stroke: A 3-Year Follow-Up Study

25 citations , June 2015 in “Scientific Reports”

People with alopecia areata have a higher risk of stroke.

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391 citations , January 2010 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”

Half of people with Alopecia Areata may see hair regrowth within a year without treatment, but recovery is unpredictable.