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The Conversation
The Conversation
Jenna Cash, Lecturer, School of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh

Red hair and fair skin gene may also play role in healing chronic wounds – new research

The gene MC1R is not only responsible for red hair and fair skin – it can also help with wound healing. Super8/ Shutterstock

Millions of people around the world live with wounds that simply won’t heal. These long-lasting wounds, often caused by diabetes, poor circulation or pressure, can be painful, prone to infection and can seriously affect quality of life. In severe cases, they can lead to amputation.

Current treatments help manage symptoms, but they don’t always address the underlying problem. That means dressings, antibiotics and repeated clinic visits, often for months or years. For many people, that cycle never truly ends.

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