Latest news with #Shh
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Business Standard
21-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Researchers map hair growth pathways for non-surgical hair restoration
Mumbai-based The Esthetic Clinics (TEC), in collaboration with QR678 Research, have co-authored a research paper that maps the complete molecular network governing human hair growth—potentially offering the clearest path yet to hair restoration without the need for surgery, medication, or transplantation. Shome added that the global hair transplant market is currently valued at $15.22 billion and is projected to reach $23.32 billion by 2030. Published in Stem Cell Research & Therapy, the paper was developed by a multidisciplinary team of researchers from India and the United States. It redefines androgenetic alopecia (AGA)—the most common form of hair loss. Significantly, the study is among the first to integrate stem cell biology, gene therapy, and molecular signalling into a unified therapeutic approach for treating AGA. 'For decades, we have treated hair loss as a cosmetic issue. This paper consolidates what we now understand about the biological breakdown behind it—and reframes baldness as a malfunction of the body's regenerative system,' said Debraj Shome, senior author and Director at TEC. The paper focuses on five main molecular pathways—Wnt/β-catenin, Sonic Hedgehog (Shh), Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP), Notch, and AKT/MAPK—that work together to control the hair follicle's growth cycle. In cases of AGA, this communication system breaks down—especially due to reduced Wnt activity and increased BMP signals—causing hair follicles to become inactive or dormant. The research proposes several therapeutic strategies to biologically 'reset' hair follicles, such as using stem cell therapies to restore a healthy follicle environment, among other approaches. The Esthetic Clinics noted that some of these approaches have shown results in lab-grown tissues and animal models, with early-stage clinical trials expected to begin within the next two years.
The Hindu
15-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Understanding cell signals could change the way hair loss is treated, study finds
A study titled 'Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Hair Follicle Regeneration and Potential Therapeutic Strategies' published in Stem Cell Research & Therapy (2025) explains how hair loss, especially androgenetic alopecia (AGA), is caused by problems in the body's natural hair growth signals -- not just hormones or ageing. The review focuses on five important biological pathways -- Wnt/β-catenin, Sonic Hedgehog (Shh), BMP, Notch, and AKT/MAPK that help control when hair grows, falls and regrows. Study highlights The study found that in people living with AGA, the signals that help hair grow (like Wnt and Shh) are blocked, while signals that stop growth (like BMP and TGF-β) are more active. This leads to smaller, weaker hair follicles that stop producing hair over time. 'These signals work together like a team,' Debraj Shome, co-founder and director at The Esthetic Clinics and Depti Bellani, senior manager medical affairs and research at QR678 and lead authors of the study explain. 'To fix the problem, we need to focus on all of them -- not just one.' Current treatments like minoxidil (topical solution that works by increasing blood flow to the scalp and extending the hair's growth phase) and finasteride (oral medication that reduces the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair follicle miniaturisation and hair loss) can slow down hair loss or help with some regrowth, but they do not treat the real reason why follicles stop working. The study highlights new types of treatments that are being tested, such as small molecules that can restart growth signals, stem cell therapy and gene editing. Formulations such as QR678, developed by the authors' research team, are also part of this new approach. Shift in hair loss treatment Experts say this could mark a big shift in how hair loss is treated. Instead of just covering up the symptoms, future treatments may be able to restart the hair follicle's natural growth process. However, the study also warns that activating these signals too much, especially Wnt or AKT -- can be risky and must be done carefully. With over 50% of men and 25% of women affected by AGA by the age of 50, the authors say it's time to look at hair loss not just as a cosmetic problem, but as a health issue that can be treated by understanding how the body's regenerative systems work. 'This isn't just about growing hair,' they said. 'It's about waking up the body's natural repair systems and helping hair follicles work the way they're meant to.' The authors also stress the importance of collaboration across medical specialties to move this research forward. Since hair loss is linked to hormonal changes, immune responses, and genetic factors, a combined approach involving dermatologists, endocrinologists, geneticists, and regenerative medicine experts is essential. 'Personalised treatment plans based on each person's biological profile will likely give better results,' the authors note. They add that wider clinical trials, safety studies and shared research efforts will be key to turning these scientific findings into real, effective therapies for patients. Various forms of hair loss and regenerative medicine The study also points out that other forms of hair loss, such as scarring alopecia, autoimmune types like alopecia areata and hair loss caused by chemotherapy are linked to similar problems in the body's regenerative signalling systems. This suggests that the same scientific approach could help treat a wider range of hair loss conditions. The authors say that the hair follicle is more than just a cosmetic structure, it functions like a mini-organ and offers valuable insight into how tissues heal, how the immune system protects certain cells, and how stem cells behave. By studying hair follicles, researchers can also learn more about the body's broader ability to repair itself, making hair loss an important area of focus in regenerative medicine.
Wales Online
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Eurovision's Cyprus act Theo Evan's TV past as he starred in global hit series
Eurovision's Cyprus act Theo Evan's TV past as he starred in global hit series The Eurovision Song Contest is taking place in St Jakobshalle arena in Basel, Switzerland, this year as the first 15 acts go head to head for a place in Saturday's grand final Theo Evan representing Cyprus attends the Turquoise Carpet of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest The Eurovision Song Contest will see the first 15 acts vie for a spot in Saturday's grand final. The first show will see countries including Iceland, Poland, Ukraine, Norway and Croatia taking part. Cyprus' Theo Evan is also slated to perform, with his song 'Shh'. The 27 year old Greek Cypriot singer-songwriter, dancer, and actor was born Evangelos Theodorou, but is more commonly known by his stage name. His early years were spent dancing and singing in various theatre productions and talent shows. After finishing school, he relocated to the US to study music and performance, before releasing his debut single The Wall in 2021. Eurovision star Theo Evans Viewers might also recognise him from one of HBO's most popular teen dramas, Euphoria, where he appeared as an extra. He featured in episode seven of season two, titled The Theater and Its Double. Theo is the first Cypriot to represent Cyprus since 2017, as the country has often been represented by acts of different nationalities. Article continues below His Eurovision entry is influenced by Greek mythology, specifically the tale of Narcissus. Narcissus was a handsome youth who spurned all admirers until he fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. In an attempt to reach his reflection, he drowned and was subsequently reborn as the Narcissus flower. Eurovision star Theo Evans He shared his admiration for his Eurovision idol during the show, stating: "Since Eurovision is in Switzerland, I have to say Céline Dion. "She proved that Eurovision can launch global superstars, and her voice and passion have inspired me endlessly." In addition to Dion, he draws inspiration from artists such as Stromae, Michael Jackson, The Fray, Drake, Billie Eilish, and Coldplay. Article continues below His track 'Shh' was penned by Dimitris Kontopoulos, Elsie Bay, Linda Dale, Elke Tiel, and Lasse Nymann. Dimitris is one of Eurovision's most successful songwriters, having written songs for eight contests and securing four top-three finishes. The first Eurovision semi-final will be broadcast on BBC One at 8pm on May 13. Viewers outside the UK can tune in via the official Eurovision Song Contest YouTube channel.
Irish Daily Mirror
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Eurovision fans only just recognising Cyprus entry Theo Evan from huge TV show
The Eurovision Song Contest is set to light up the St Jakobshalle arena in Basel, Switzerland, as the first acts battle it out for a spot in Saturday's grand finale. The first show will see countries like Iceland, Poland, Ukraine, Norway and Croatia showcasing their talent. Cyprus' own Theo Evan is also set to grace the stage with his track 'Shh'. The 27 year old Greek Cypriot singer-songwriter, dancer, and actor, born Evangelos Theodorou, is more commonly known by his stage name. His early years were spent honing his craft in various theatre productions and talent shows. After finishing school, he made the move to the US to study music and performance, before dropping his debut single The Wall in 2021. Eagle-eyed viewers might have spotted him in one of HBO's biggest teen dramas, Euphoria, where he appeared as an extra. He featured in episode seven of season two, aptly titled The Theater and Its Double. Theo holds the honour of being the first Cypriot to represent Cyprus since 2017, as the country has often been represented by acts of different nationalities. The songwriter revealed his tune for Eurovision is steeped in ancient Greek mythos, taking a page from the tale of Narcissus—a handsome boy desired by many but smitten only with himself, leading to his tragic demise and rebirth as the namesake flower. Speaking about his Eurovision idol, he shared: "Since Eurovision is in Switzerland, I have to say Céline Dion." "She proved that Eurovision can launch global superstars, and her voice and passion have inspired me endlessly." Drawing creative zest from a roster of stars like Stromae, Michael Jackson, The Fray, Drake, Billie Eilish, and Coldplay, his track 'Shh' springs from the collaborative genius of Dimitris Kontopoulos, Elsie Bay, Linda Dale, Elke Tiel, and Lasse Nymann. Notably, Dimitris emerges as one of Eurovision's most accomplished writers, boasting songs in eight contests and securing four top-three spots. Gear up for the Eurovision spectacle with the first semi-final hitting screens on BBC One at 8pm, May 13. For viewers tuning in from beyond the UK, they can watch via the official Eurovision Song Contest YouTube channel.
RTÉ News
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
Here is the running order for tonight's Eurovision semi-final
Fifteen acts will compete in the first semi-final of Eurovision 2025 as it gets under way in Basel this evening. But with only ten spots available in Saturday's Grand Final, not everyone will make it through. The show opens with Iceland's rowing-inspired anthem RÓA and closes with Cyprus's Theo Evan performing Shh. Fan favourites Sweden, represented by comedy trio KAJ with Bara Bada Bastu, and the Netherlands' Claude with C'est La Vie, are also among tonight's contenders. The full running order includes entries from across Europe, as well as automatic finalists Spain, Italy and host country Switzerland, who will perform in tonight's show but will not face the public vote. 1. Iceland: VÆB – RÓA 2. Poland: Justyna Steczkowska – GAJA 3. Slovenia: Klemen – How Much Time Do We Have Left 4. Estonia: Tommy Cash – Espresso Macchiato Spain: Melody – ESA DIVA 5. Ukraine: Ziferblat – Bird of Pray 6. Sweden: KAJ – Bara Bada Bastu 7. Portugal: NAPA – Deslocado 8. Norway: Kyle Alessandro – Lighter 9. Belgium: Red Sebastian – Strobe Lights Italy: Lucio Corsi – Volevo Essere Un Duro 10. Azerbaijan: Mamagama - Run With U 11. San Marino: Gabry Ponte – Tutta L'Italia 12. Albania: Shkodra Elektronike – Zjerm 13. Netherlands: Claude – C'est La Vie 14. Croatia: Marko Bošnjak – Poison Cake Switzerland: Zoë Më – Voyage 15. Cyprus: Theo Evan – Shh The Eurovision Song Contest Semi-Finals take place on 13 and 15 May and will be shown live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player from 8pm. The Grand Final takes place on Saturday, 17 May, and will be shown live on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player from 8pm.
