Welcome to an enlightening conversation with Dr. Claire Higgins, PhD, a senior lecturer specializing in bioengineering at Imperial College London. In this dialogue, Dr. Higgins shares her invaluable insights into the fascinating world of hair loss research, stem cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and the intricate role genetics play in hair regrowth.
You can watch the video below to listen to the whole interview of Dr. Claire Higgins with Dr. Nilofer Farjo.
Background in Hair Research
Dr. Higgins begins by introducing herself and her extensive background in hair research. Her journey into this field started with a deep-seated interest in hair, which led her to pursue a PhD at the University of Durham, focusing on hair shedding and hair neogenesis. She had the privilege of working under the guidance of Professor Colin Yehuda, a renowned figure in hair regeneration research.
Following her PhD, Dr. Higgins continued her exploration of hair regeneration and hair cycling during her time at Columbia University in New York. Her research also delved into genetic diseases affecting hair length. In 2013, she established her own laboratory, the Skin Regeneration Laboratory, which naturally incorporated hair and skin as model systems for her research.
Also Read: Exploring Potential Cures for Hair Loss and Genetic Factors
The Quest for Hair Regeneration
Patients often approach hair loss specialists with the hope of finding a one-time solution for their genetic hair loss. They wonder why hair regeneration, or cloning, isn’t readily available when it was first demonstrated over half a century ago. Dr. Higgins explains that the fields of hair research and tissue engineering must align for true hair regeneration to become a reality.
Hair research, dating back over a century, has long been dedicated to understanding the nuances of hair growth. However, tissue engineering, a relatively newer field with only about three decades of history, offers the potential for engineering new hair follicles. Dr. Higgins emphasizes that tissue engineering comprises three essential components: cells, signals, and scaffolds, all of which need optimization for organ regeneration to occur.
The Three Pillars of Tissue Engineering
Cells: Research has predominantly focused on the role of cells in hair cloning or hair induction. Cells initiate these processes, but other pillars also play crucial roles.
Signals: Signals released by cells or external factors can influence hair follicle behavior. These signals can prolong the growth phase of follicles, delaying miniaturization.
Scaffolds: The architecture of cells grown in culture must mimic the native structure found in hair follicles. Optimizing scaffolds is essential for effective tissue engineering.
The Evolution of Hair Cloning
The journey towards hair cloning and regeneration has seen significant milestones over the years:
Rodent cells were initially used for hair cloning around 60 years ago.
In the 1980s, researchers showed that rodent cells from hair follicles could be cultured and retain their ability to stimulate hair growth.
In the 1990s, it was demonstrated that human dermal cells could also induce hair growth.
The breakthrough of cultivating human cells with native-like structures was achieved in 2013, finally showcasing human cell involvement in hair growth.
Stem Cell Therapy and Hair Growth
Dr. Higgins clarifies the concept of stem cell therapy in the context of hair loss. While stem cells exist in various tissues, including adipose tissue, they do not directly enlarge hair follicles. Instead, they work through a paracrine effect, releasing factors that may prolong the growth phase and prevent follicles from entering a regression state. Stem cell therapy does not reverse miniaturization but rather delays it.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Its Paracrine Signal
PRP treatments have gained attention for their potential to promote hair growth. Similar to stem cell therapy, PRP relies on a paracrine signal. PRP’s growth factors can extend the growth phase of hair follicles, potentially delaying miniaturization. Understanding the hair cycle phase affected by these therapies is crucial.
Unraveling the Complexities of Genetics
Dr. Higgins addresses the intricate genetics of hair loss. Genetic factors, epigenetics (external influences), and the interaction of multiple genes all contribute to the complexity of hair loss. Cells in the body contain the same DNA, but gene expression depends on whether a gene is turned on or off, influenced by external factors, such as signals released by cells within the hair follicle.
The Promise of a Hair Loss Cure
In closing, Dr. Higgins expresses optimism about the possibility of finding a cure for hair loss. As research progresses and more studies involve human samples, understanding the root causes of hair loss becomes increasingly achievable. Collaborations between hair transplant surgeons and hair biology research labs worldwide are essential to advance toward the goal of ending hair loss.
In the quest for a cure, Dr. Higgins believes that leveraging human samples and aligning the fields of hair research and tissue engineering will ultimately lead to effective solutions for genetic hair loss.
This insightful conversation with Dr. Claire Higgins sheds light on the exciting developments in hair research, stem cell therapy, PRP, and genetics, offering hope for those seeking effective treatments for hair regrowth.