Smart nanomedicines for treating Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disorder associated with patchy hair loss that results from T cells attacking the hair follicles. Conventional treatment employs the use of topical corticosteroids, which, however, do not provide a cure. The EU-funded EngiNano-HF project (grant agrement N° 101028881) is interested to develop novel treatment solutions for AA using nanocarriers that facilitate the controlled release of therapeutic substances. Researchers will develop a series of polymer nanoformulations and characterise their properties alongside their capacity to penetrate hair follicles and achieve targeted delivery. Results have the potential to improve existing treatment options for AA.