research Role of the Autoimmune Regulator (AIRE) gene in alopecia areata: Strong association of a potentially functional AIRE polymorphism with alopecia universalis 86 citations , December 2002 in “Tissue Antigens” A specific gene change is linked to severe hair loss.
research Role of Aire and Notch4 Allelic Mutations in Alopecia Areata in C3H/HeJ Mice March 2026 in “JID Innovations” Aire mutation reduces alopecia areata, while Notch4 mutation prevents it in mice.
research Abstracts October 2003 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings” Mice treatments didn't grow hair, a patient treatment may affect immune response, and people with hair loss often feel anxious or depressed.