The role of telomerase in hair growth and relevant disorders: A review

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundHair diseases may present with hair loss, hirsutism, hair melanin abnormalities and other manifestations. Hair follicles are known as mini‐organs that undergo periodic remodeling, and their constant regeneration in vivo reflects interesting anti‐aging functions. Telomerase prevents cellular senescence by maintaining telomere length, but its excessive proliferation in cancer cells may also induce cancer. However, the effects of telomerase in hair growth have rarely been reported.MethodsIn this study, we reviewed the role of telomerase in hair growth and the effects of hair disorders through literature search and analysis.ResultsThere is growing evidence that telomerase plays an important role in maintaining hair follicle function and proliferation. Changes in telomerase levels in hair follicles have also been found in a variety of hair disorders.ConclusionTelomerase plays a positive role in hair growth and is expected to become a new target for the treatment of alopecia or other hair diseases in the future.