Could Gene Therapy Make the Gray Go Away?
Jan. 10, 2000 (Atlanta) — Scientists demonstrated that pigmentation can be restored in albino mice (without pigment) by correcting a genetic mutation in the hair follicle, according to a report in the January issue of the journal Nature Biotechnology. The authors say hair follicles may someday manufacture proteins for other gene therapy applications. Researchers created DNA molecules, the chemical basis for inherited traits. The corrective DNA was then applied directly to hairless skin or injected just below the surface. Within a few weeks, pigmented hairs emerged in the treated areas, and tests confirmed the DNA sequence was repaired. In a corresponding commentary, the findings are said to have future commercial potential. “Hair follicle research holds scientific interest at present and commercial potential in the future,” says Robert Hoffman, PhD, president of AntiCancer Inc. “Billions of people lose their hair and hair pigment with age. And albinism, alopecia (loss of hair), or hai
