Q: What are the major obstacles for scientists to cloning hair?
A: The main problem is that the cultured cells may lose their phenotype with multiple passages, i.e. lose their ability to differentiate into hair follicles after they have been multiplied.
Another problem of hair cloning is that the orientation of hair direction must be controlled. With mouse experiments, the hairs grow at all different directions. Scientists need to find a way to align the hair so that it grows in the right direction. Hair, of course, must also be of a quality that is cosmetically acceptable and matches the patient existing hair. And the hair should grow in follicular units. Individual hairs will not give the fullness or natural look of follicular units.
Another problem is the issue of safety. Are we sure that cultured cells may not turn into something else – such as malignancy cells with uncontrolled growth?
Finally, FDA approval would be required and this takes time. It is true that you do not need FDA approval for using your own hair, such as a hair transplant; however, when you take cells from the body and manipulate it in the lab, this requires FDA approval.
Topic: Hair CloningTags: Cultured Fibroblasts / Eyebrow Transplant / Follicular Unit / Hair Cloning / Hair Cloning Obstacles / Hair Orientation / Hair Restoration Surgery / Safety / U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Posted by Robert M. Bernstein M.D. at 11:20 am
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Hello, Dr Bernstein, as you seem very informed and up to date on the hair cloning issue, do you know where they are at, I mean some of the companies researching it claim to be in an advanced stage after several successful trials. Do you know roughy when this could become a reality for people, in cosmetic use. I recently spoke to the surgeon who gave me a hair transplant and he said at least 20 years, between 20 – 30 years. He also said it would be for older, bald men. Is this true or could anyone that is balding be considered? Also, I have been advised to go on Propecia, however I am only 20, and do not want to go on this my whole life, should I take this till cloning becomes available or wait to see if I receed further back? Your comments/opinions would be much appreciated, thank you.
My best guess is still about 10 years. When hair cloning is available, everyone should be able to benefit from it. If you are balding and only 20, Propecia should be considered. When cloning is available, the finasteride should no longer be necessary.