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Unraveling the Science of Gray Hair: Causes and Solutions

Author: NYU Langone Medical Center / New York University School of Medicine
Published: 2011/06/14 - Updated: 2025/05/15
Publication Details: Peer-Reviewed, Informative
Category Topic: Hair and Scalp - Academic Publications

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates

Synopsis: This research, conducted by scientists at NYU Langone Medical Center and published in the journal Cell, explores the role of Wnt signaling in hair pigmentation. The study reveals that Wnt signaling is crucial for the interaction between hair follicle stem cells and melanocyte stem cells, which produce melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. Disruption in this signaling pathway can lead to the cessation of melanin production, resulting in gray hair. The findings not only enhance our understanding of hair graying but also offer insights into tissue regeneration and potential treatments for pigmentation disorders. This information is particularly valuable for seniors and individuals with disabilities, as it sheds light on the biological processes underlying age-related changes and potential avenues for therapeutic intervention - Disabled World (DW).

Introduction

A new study by researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center has shown that, for the first time, Wnt signaling, already known to control many biological processes, between hair follicles and melanocyte stem cells can dictate hair pigmentation - including gray hair. The study was published in the journal Cell.

Main Content

The research was led by Mayumi Ito, PhD, assistant professor in the Ronald O. Pereleman Department of Dermatology at NYU Langone.

"We have known for decades that hair follicle stem cells and pigment-producing melanocyte cells collaborate to produce colored hair, but the underlying reasons were unknown," said Dr. Ito. "We discovered Wnt signaling is essential for coordinated actions of these two stem cell lineages and critical for hair pigmentation."

The study suggests the manipulation of Wnt signaling may be a novel strategy for targeting pigmentation such as graying hair. The research study also illustrates a model for tissue regeneration.

"The human body has many types of stem cells that have the potential to regenerate other organs," said Dr. Ito. "The methods behind communication between stem cells of hair and color during hair replacement may give us important clues to regenerate complex organs containing many different types of cells."

Using genetic mouse models, researchers were able to examine how Wnt signaling pathways enabled both hair follicle stem cells and melanocyte stem cells to work together to generate hair growth and produce hair color.

Research also showed the depletion (or inhibition or abnormal) Wnt signaling in hair follicle stem cells not only inhibits hair re-growth but also prevents melanocytes stem cell activation required for producing hair color. The lack of Wnt activation in melanocyte stem cells leads to de-pigmented or gray hair.

The study raises the possibility that Wnt signaling is a key pathway for the regulation of melanocyte stem cells and shows how melanocyte behavior is associated with hair regeneration.

This insight provides further understanding of diseases in which melanocytes are either appropriately lost such as hair graying or undergo uncontrolled cell growth as in melanoma.

Insights, Analysis, and Developments

Editorial Note: The discovery of Wnt signaling's role in hair pigmentation marks a significant advancement in dermatological research. By elucidating the molecular mechanisms behind hair graying, this study opens new pathways for developing treatments for pigmentation disorders and age-related changes. Understanding the molecular pathways that govern hair pigmentation not only deepens our knowledge of the aging process but also opens doors to innovative treatments for hair graying and related pigment disorders. As research continues, these findings may pave the way for therapies that could benefit those affected by premature graying, vitiligo, or even certain forms of melanoma, offering hope for improved quality of life and self-image - Disabled World (DW).

Attribution/Source(s): This peer reviewed publication was selected for publishing by the editors of Disabled World (DW) due to its relevance to the disability community. Originally authored by NYU Langone Medical Center / New York University School of Medicine and published on 2011/06/14, this content may have been edited for style, clarity, or brevity.

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Citing and References

Founded in 2004, Disabled World (DW) is a leading resource on disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility, supporting the disability community. Learn more on our About Us page.

Cite This Page: NYU Langone Medical Center / New York University School of Medicine. (2011, June 14 - Last revised: 2025, May 15). Unraveling the Science of Gray Hair: Causes and Solutions. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved September 12, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/health/dermatology/hair/gray-hair.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/health/dermatology/hair/gray-hair.php">Unraveling the Science of Gray Hair: Causes and Solutions</a>: A study reveals that disrupted Wnt signaling between hair follicle and pigment stem cells leads to gray hair, offering insight into hair pigmentation and aging.

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