Jan 18 2022: Going bald? Lab-grown hair cells could be on the way

Back in Jan 18 2022: Going bald? Lab-grown hair cells could be on the way

Biologists at startups are using genetic engineering to solve baldness by creating hair-forming cells. One startup called dNovo has successfully transplanted human hair stem cells onto a mouse, resulting in the growth of human hair. The company believes that by genetically reprogramming ordinary cells, they can produce the components of hair follicles and potentially treat the underlying cause of hair loss.

Other startups are also exploring the use of reprogramming technology to combat aging symptoms. While there have been limited demonstrations of reprogramming as a treatment, researchers are optimistic about the potential for restoring hair growth in both men and women.

Fast forward to Oct 01 2023: ‘We’re not making new hairs, we’re rescuing’: could scientists reverse male pattern baldness?

HairClone, a company focused on developing cell therapy treatment for male pattern baldness, aims to reverse the miniaturization process of hair follicles. By banking youthful follicles or follicles from areas with hair, they can extract dermal papilla cells, responsible for hair growth, and clone and multiply them in the laboratory.

The hope is that injecting these cells back into the scalp will plumpen the follicles and restore hair to a more youthful state. While the efficacy is yet to be established, the company is working to manufacture cells to clinical standards and hopes to offer the treatment within the next 12-18 months.

Can hair cloning provide a solution to reverse the process of male pattern baldness and restore hair to a more youthful state?