When pigment cells stop working or die, hair loses its color and turns white or gray. It was previously believed that this process was directly related to age, as the number of melanocyte stem cells decreases with advancing age, and the body gradually loses its ability to maintain pigment. However, a new study has shown that aging is not the only factor. Sometimes, pigment cells may stop functioning due to DNA damage from ultraviolet radiation, exposure to radiation, or severe oxidative stress, as reported on the health.mail.ru website. Experimental models also revealed that psychological stress can cause premature loss of pigment, as it activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to the release of norepinephrine. This hormone affects pigment cells and accelerates their aging. Researchers confirmed that this response represents a natural stress mechanism for the body. When cells in hair follicles are at risk of mutations, the body prefers to stop their activity to maintain their integrity. The study introduces a new concept of the relationship between graying and skin cancer. Previously, melanoma and gray hair were seen as two separate processes, but the new results suggest that the two phenomena may be different outcomes of the same cellular decision. The head of the research team, Professor Emi Nishimura, noted that the findings open new avenues for studying pigment cells and potential ways to prevent skin cancer. However, scientists emphasize that gray hair does not provide complete protection, as graying only indicates that some cells have chosen the 'safe' path, while others may remain susceptible to mutations. Furthermore, repigmentation after graying could be a warning sign, as researchers discovered that some malignant cells may reactivate to produce melanin, which may indicate pathological changes, and doctors advise not to ignore these signs. A new study conducted by Japanese researchers from the University of Tokyo has revealed that hair pigment loss may be a natural defense mechanism the body uses to reduce the risk of developing cancerous cells, not merely a result of aging. It is known that hair color depends on the activity of pigment cells responsible for producing melanin.
