Researchers from MIT, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School have engineered a novel treatment for alopecia areata (AA). The innovative approach utilizes a microneedle patch to deliver immune-regulating molecules directly to the scalp, potentially revolutionizing treatment for AA and other autoimmune skin conditions.
According to the research paper published in Advanced Materials, the microneedle patch is composed of hyaluronic acid crosslinked with polyethylene glycol, both of which are biocompatible and commonly used in medical applications. The microneedle patch penetrates the skin's outer layer and releases a combination of cytokines IL-2 and CCL-22, which recruit regulatory T cells to the site. These cells help modulate the immune response and inflammation, training T cells that hair follicles are not foreign antigens and should not be attacked.
In a press release, Dr. Natalie Artzi, a principal research scientist at MIT, explained the paradigm shift in potential treatment: “Rather than suppressing the immune system [using injectable steroids or broad immunosuppressants], we’re now focusing on regulating it precisely at the site of antigen encounter to generate immune tolerance.” She added: “This polymer formulation allows us to create highly durable needles capable of effectively penetrating the skin. Additionally, it gives us the flexibility to incorporate any desired drug,”
In murine studies, the treatment demonstrated increased regulatory T cell presence at the treatment site, reduced inflammation, hair regrowth maintained for weeks post-treatment, and no systemic immune effects were observed. These findings were corroborated using human skin grafts on mice with humanized immune systems.
Existing therapies for alopecia areata, such as steroid injections or systemic immunosuppressants, often prove intolerable or have severe side effects. Dr. Artzi notes, "This [existing] approach silences the entire immune system, offering relief from inflammation symptoms but leading to frequent recurrences. Moreover, it increases susceptibility to infections, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer."
The microneedle patch offers localized treatment without broad immunosuppression, potentially improving both efficacy and safety.
The researchers believe potential applications of the microneedle patch could be extended to other autoimmune skin diseases such as vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis.
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