“Although Hypotrichosis simplex is very uncommon, it may prove critical in understanding the mechanisms of hair growth,” says project leader Dr. Regina Betz from Bonn’s Institute of Human Genetics. Individuals affected by this condition usually go bald during childhood. Alopecia or the process of hair loss especially around the scalp progresses as an individual gets older.

Researchers believe that the study opens up opportunities for future studies about hair loss. “We can now search selectively for related substances that may be used in therapies for hair loss,” say Dr. Ivar von Kügelgen of Bonn’s Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology. Because of the study, the possibility of developing medicines that will benefit patients suffering from hair loss has significantly improved.