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This project aims to identify genes
influencing early onset Male Pattern Baldness (MPB). The aim is to identify
specific chromosomal regions that have at least a moderate effect on MPB.
These implicated loci will then be further investigated in order to identify
the causative gene(s) influencing MPB. Twin subjects from the previous
"Semi-Structures Assessment for the genetics of Alcoholism" ("OZ
Twin 89 Interview": "SSAGA-OZ") will be targetted.
Initially 81 DZ pairs and their families will be approached. These 81 twin
pairs have been identified as concordant with hair loss from their Twin 89
interview questions.
The study will involve collecting phenotypic
(hair loss) information from twins, male siblings, and parents, using a
structured interview. A blood sample (40mls) will be obtained from all
participants. Photos will be collected from twins in order to accurately
measure advancement of individual hair loss.
Common baldness (androgenetic alopecia, AGA) is the most common form of
hair loss in humans. In caucasians, normal male
hair loss, commonly known as "male pattern baldness" (MPB), is
noticeable in about 20% of men aged 20, and continues to steadily increase
with age, so that a male in his 90's has a 90% chance of having some degree
of MPB. The negative psychosocial effects associated with male hair loss
include decreased self-esteem, dissatisfaction with body image or appearance,
self-consciousness, perception of aging and often emotional stress.
Furthermore, these effects tend to be more pronounced in younger men.
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