How metabolism affects hair follicle stem cells and cancer development
Official title: Metabolic Control of Hair Follicle Stem Cell Homeostasis and Tumorigenesis
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11074131 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain processes in our body's metabolism affect the stem cells that help our hair grow and heal wounds, focusing on an enzyme called lactate dehydrogenase, to find new ways to improve hair regrowth and possibly prevent skin cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | April 11, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $456,754 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR084245-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074131 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing hair loss or those at risk for skin cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hair loss due to non-metabolic causes or those who do not have a history of skin cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of metabolic processes in the regulation of hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs), which are crucial for hair growth and wound healing. The study focuses on the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (Ldh) and its impact on HFSC activation, exploring how changes in metabolism can influence cell behavior and potentially lead to cancer. By examining the relationship between Ldh activity and mitochondrial processes, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could improve hair regeneration and prevent tumor formation. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for hair loss and skin cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for hair loss and improved strategies for cancer prevention.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the metabolic regulation of stem cells, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lowry, William E — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Lowry, William E
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.