Researchers have recognized as many as eight genes in the human body that according to them, are responsible for a skin disease called alopecia areata, which is the most common source of hair loss.

The study has been identified as the first to have claimed a possible link between certain genes and alopecia areata.

Interestingly, a number of separate studies have justified the link of the same genes to numerous other diseases like Type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

The Columbia University Medical Center researchers claim that these genes could be responsible for the development of alopecia areata, as well.

Lead Researcher, Angela M. Christiano, PhD, a professor of dermatology and genetics and development at Columbia, said that the gene ULBP3 is generally not found in hair follicles. However, ULBP3 proteins constitute the hair follicles in large amounts.

ULBP3 catches the most protected cells called cytotoxic cells. The latter battles any form of infections within the body of the human beings. They demolish the already injured cells.

But these cells do not attack those cells that are healthy and immune.

"Finding the initial genes underlying alopecia areata is a big step forward, but the nature of the genes is even more exciting", said Christiano.