TLDR Blocking CXCR4 may help treat hidradenitis suppurativa.
The study investigates the genetic basis of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), an inflammatory skin disease, by conducting a genome-wide association study (GWAS) with 6,300 cases, identifying 12 independent risk loci. The research highlights the role of a gene module involving SOX9, CXCR4, and CD74 in epithelial remodeling and inflammation. Pharmacological inhibition of CXCR4 suggests a regulatory mechanism involving CD74 in PI3K/AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways, affecting keratinocyte behavior. The study also finds a connection between HS and male pattern hair loss, suggesting that CXCR4 blockade could be a potential therapeutic strategy for HS.
47 citations
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July 2023 in “Nature Genetics” 
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February 2014 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” NF-κB activity is crucial for keeping hair in the growth phase.
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May 2007 in “Nature” Hair follicles can regrow in wounded adult mouse skin using a process like embryo development.
