Disrupted cholesterol biosynthesis and hair follicle stem cell impairment in the onset of alopecia

Individuals with aberrant cholesterol production, especially those affected by PCA, endure a lasting hindrance in hair regrowth stemming from the irreversible damage to their hair follicles. The observed phenomenon is hypothesized to result from the depletion of hair follicle stem cells. Our study reveals further insights that unveil the previously unrecognized role of sterol intermediates in governing hair follicle cycling and stem cell function in PCA. The modulation of cholesterol production and the accumulation of sterol intermediates significantly influence the hair follicle cycle and the role of stem cells in alopecia.