Iron Deficiency-Induced Hair Loss Is Associated With ROS-Mediated Disruption Of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling

This study explores how maternal iron deficiency leads to hair loss in offspring by disrupting Wnt/β-catenin signaling through increased reactive oxygen species (ROS). Using a mouse model, researchers found that iron-deficient pups exhibited hair loss, reduced body size, and abnormal follicular morphology, which were reversed with iron supplementation. In vitro studies with human follicle dermal papilla cells confirmed that iron deficiency increased ROS and disrupted signaling pathways. The study concludes that early iron deficiency impairs hair growth due to oxidative stress and signaling disruptions, but postnatal iron supplementation can restore normal hair development. The findings emphasize the importance of maintaining adequate iron levels to prevent hair loss associated with oxidative stress.