Extensive research is being conducted to study the stem cells for hair regeneration purposes. Read our guide for more facts and information about what may be the future of hair restoration treatments…
Research and study on Stem cell cloning is being done for years and is still in progress. Scientists believe that stem cells can be used as a cure for a number of diseases in which includes balding.
Latest Research
The latest research was conducted by Journal of Clinical Investigation who found that the pattern of hair loss in men was due to the inability of the stem cells to produce progenitor cells. They are similar to stem cells as both can diffuse into different cell types; however progenitor cells’ capacity is restricted. They are the cells that are mainly responsible for our hair growth and replace damaged and dead cells in the scalp.
Researchers are investigating whether stem cells can encourage the growth of hair follicles by stimulating the dormant cells. The hair follicles work in cycles of growth, then rest and then regrowth. When these phases slow down hair becomes weak and thins, and hair loss begins. Even though Stem cells are present when one suffers from hair loss, they become inactive.
The underlying principle in this study is to achieve these dormant stem cells to be active again to regenerate hair growth.
However this conclusion is still years away and when the results are achieved they will become the foundation for the hair loss and grafting treatments.
Other methods
Another study that tested stem cell cloning and transplants, looked at the shrinking hair follicles that led to hair loss. As with successive phases the hair becomes thinner and weaker. It is being tested whether the cells can cause the follicle to regenerate hair and continue the cycles of growth.
Problems
Stem cell cloning was tested through hair transplants on a very small number of volunteers in one trial. The results showed hair regrowth in 70% of those who participated. However a lot of associated problems and risks were identified.
- The procedure involves the transplant and division of thousands of cells which could lead to cancer.
- Will the hair that grows be satisfactory to the patient in terms of thickness, strength and health cannot be said.
- Hair growth can vary between different patches even if the same number of cells were injected, so results cannot be guaranteed.
- The placement of follicles will be uniform however the way the hair grows can grow in any direction.
- The treatment will be expensive as compare to other conventional treatments available.
- The hair that grows may or may not survive.
With rapid and continuous studies being carried out, stem cells give hope for those suffering from hair loss. But as of now, no treatment is available to the general public for hair restoration through stem cells. People have to consider other treatments for now and wait for this medical breakthrough to arrive in the future.