Part of the Gene Discovery Study focuses on a rare genetic form of non-scarring alopecia, loose anagen hair syndrome (LAHS). It is an autosomal dominant or sporadic disorder and characterized by increased hair shedding due to poorly anchored hairs; hairs are easily lost during daily activities.

LAHS is mostly an isolated finding, but can be associated with malformation syndromes. Several genes are suspected or confirmed to play a role in LAHS, but the whole picture is far from complete. Our laboratory applies a genomic approach to studying LAHS with the aim of identifying the components of the system or pathway that establish the mechanical interlocking of the hair and inner root sheath cuticle cells during active growth.