Sex-related differences in urinary immune-related metabolic profiling of alopecia areata patients

Abstract

Introduction Alopecia areata is a well-known autoimmune disease affecting humans. Polyamines are closely associated with proliferation and inflammation, and steroid hormones are involved in immune responses. Additionally, bile acids play roles in immune homeostasis by activating various signaling pathways; however, the roles of these substances and their metabolites in alopecia areata remain unclear. Objectives In this study, we aimed to identify differences in metabolite levels in urine samples from patients with alopecia areata and healthy controls. Methods To assess polyamine, androgen, and bile acid concentrations, we performed high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Results Our results showed that spermine and dehydroepiandrosterone levels differed significantly between male patients and controls, whereas ursodeoxycholic acid levels were significantly higher in female patients with alopecia areata than in controls. Conclusion Our findings suggested different urinary polyamine, androgen, and bile acid concentrations between alopecia areata patients and normal controls. Additionally, levels of endogenous substances varied according to sex, and this should be considered when developing appropriate treatments and diagnostic techniques. Our findings improve our understanding of polyamine, androgen, and bile acid profiles in patients with alopecia areata and highlight the need to consider sex-related differences.