Liposomal honokiol promotes hair growth via activating Wnt3a/β-catenin signaling pathway and down regulating TGF-β1 in C57BL/6N mice

Prostate Cancer Bone Metastasis: Molecular Mechanisms of Tumor and Bone Microenvironment

Prostate cancer is prevalent among men aged 65 and older. Bone metastasis occurs in up to 90% of advanced prostate cancer patients, metastatic prostate cancer is generally considered a non-curative condition which can impact quality of life. The tumor microenvironment, comprising diverse cellular and non-cellular elements, interacts with prostate cancer cells to affect tumor growth and bone metastasis. Within the bone microenvironment, different cell types, including osteoblasts, osteoclasts, adipocytes, endothelial cells, hematopoietic stem cells, and immune cells, engage with tumor cells. Some cells alter tumor behavior, while others are impacted or overpowered by tumor cells, leading to different phases of tumor cell movement, dormancy, latency, resistance to treatment, and advancement to visible bone metastasis. This review summarizes recent research on the tumor microenvironment and bone microenvironment in prostate cancer bone metastasis, exploring underlying mechanisms and the potential value of targeting these environments for treatment.

Melatonin promotes hair regeneration by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway

Melatonin (MLT) is a circadian hormone that reportedly influences the development and cyclic growth of secondary hair follicles; however, the mechanism of regulation remains unknown. Here, we systematically investigated the role of MLT in hair regeneration using a hair depilation mouse model. We found that MLT supplementation significantly promoted hair regeneration in the hair depilation mouse model, whereas supplementation of MLT receptor antagonist luzindole significantly suppressed hair regeneration. By analysing gene expression dynamics between the MLT group and luzindole-treated groups, we revealed that MLT supplementation significantly up-regulated Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway-related genes. In-depth analysis of the expression of key molecules in the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway revealed that MLT up-regulated the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway in dermal papillae (DP), whereas these effects were facilitated through mediating Wnt ligand expression levels in the hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs). Using a DP-HFSCs co-culture system, we verified that MLT activated Wnt/β-catenin signalling in DPs when co-cultured with HFSCs, whereas supplementation of DP cells with MLT alone failed to activate Wnt/β-catenin signalling. In summary, our work identified a critical role for MLT in promoting hair regeneration and will have potential implications for future hair loss treatment in humans.

Effective cultivation conditions and safety evaluation of filamentous cyanobacteria producing phycocyanins with antiglycation activities

We investigated suitable culture conditions for the production of the blue pigment phycocyanin (PC) from the unique filamentous cyanobacteria Pseudanabaena sp. ABRG5-3 and Limnothrix sp. SK1-2-1. White, green, or red LED irradiation at 30 μmol photons/m2/s was effective for phycocyanin production when compared with Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) sp. NIES-39, which is generally grown under high light irradiation. To investigate the safety of the cyanobacteria, ABRG5-3 cells were subjected to Ames (reverse mutation) tests and single oral-dose rat studies, which revealed non-mutagenic and non-toxic properties. When three purified phycocyanins (abPC, skPC, and spPC) were subjected to agarose gel electrophoresis, they showed different mobility, indicating that each phycocyanin has unique properties. abPC exhibited strong antiglycation activities as novel function.

In vitro hair growth-promoting effect of Lgr5-binding octapeptide in human primary hair cells

BACKGROUND

Hair loss occurs due to various biological and environmental causes, which can have psychosocial consequences. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling is well-known for its role in hair growth and regeneration, as it induces the proliferation and differentiation of hair cells. When the leucine-rich G protein-coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5) interacts with the R-spondins, the frizzled receptor (FZD), a Wnt receptor, becomes stabilized, resulting in an increased β-catenin activity.

AIM

We investigated whether the octapeptide that binds to Lgr5 enhances proliferation and differentiation of human primary hair cells through the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

METHODS

The binding affinity of the octapeptide to Lgr5 was evaluated using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). We confirmed changes in proliferation and related factors like β-catenin activation and growth factors (GFs) expression in human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HHFDPCs). Additionally, we observed the proliferation and the expression of differentiation markers in human hair follicle outer root sheath cells (HHFORSCs), human hair follicle germinal matrix cells (HHFGMCs), and human hair follicle stem cells (HHFSCs). We used three-dimensional HHFDPC spheroid culture treated with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to create in vitro conditions that mimic androgenetic alopecia, and we studied the effects of octapeptide on Wnt expression and HHFSC differentiation.

RESULTS

The binding of the octapeptide to Lgr5 was confirmed using SPR analysis. In HHFDPCs, treatment with octapeptide resulted in a concentration-dependent increase in proliferation. We also observed increased nuclear translocation of β-catenin and increased expression of its downstream targets. HHFDPCs treated with octapeptide exhibited increased expression of growth factors and phosphorylation of Akt and ERK. In addition, we confirmed that octapeptide increased proliferation and induced differentiation in HHFORSCs, HHFGMCs, and HHFSCs. Under the HHFDPC spheroid culture conditions, we found that octapeptide restored the inhibition of Wnt-5a and Wnt-10b expressions by DHT. In HHFSCs treated with HHFDPC spheroid culture media, we observed that octapeptide recovered the inhibition of differentiation by DHT.

CONCLUSION

We found that octapeptides activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling and induced the proliferation and differentiation of human primary hair cells by acting as an exogenous ligand for Lgr5. In addition, octapeptides recovered inhibited hair regeneration characters by DHT in androgenetic alopecia-mimic in vitro model. These findings suggest that octapeptides may be a promising therapeutic option for treating hair loss.

Progress on the mechanism of natural products alleviating androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) has become a widespread problem that leads to considerable impairment of the psyche and daily life. The currently approved medications for the treatment of AGA are associated with significant adverse effects, high costs, and prolonged treatment duration. Therefore, natural products are being considered as possible complementary or alternative treatments. This review aims to enhance comprehension of the mechanisms by which natural products treat AGA. To achieve this, pertinent studies were gathered and subjected to analysis. In addition, the therapeutic mechanisms associated with these natural products were organized and summarized. These include the direct modulation of signaling pathways such as the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, the PI3K/AKT pathway, and the BMP pathway. Additionally, they exert effects on cytokine secretion, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capabilities, as well as apoptosis and autophagy. Furthermore, the review briefly discusses the relationship between signaling pathways and autophagy and apoptosis in the context of AGA, systematically presents the mechanisms of action of existing natural products, and analyzes the potential therapeutic targets based on the active components of these products. The aim is to provide a theoretical basis for the development of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, or dietary supplements.

Controlling Hair Loss by Regulating Apoptosis in Hair Follicles: A Comprehensive Overview

Apoptosis is a physiological process that occurs in all cell types of the human body, and it profoundly changes the fate of hair by affecting hair follicle cells. This review outlines the cellular changes, intrinsic biochemical characteristics, and mechanisms underlying apoptosis and summarizes the hair follicle life cycle, including development, cycle stages, and corresponding cellular changes. Finally, the relationship between apoptosis and the hair cycle is discussed and the significance of apoptosis in hair loss conditions and drug treatments is highlighted. Apoptosis induces cellular changes and exhibits distinctive properties through intricate signaling pathways. Hair follicles undergo cyclic periods of growth, regression, and dormancy. Apoptosis is closely correlated with the regression phase by triggering hair follicle cell death and shedding. Regulation of apoptosis in hair follicles plays an essential role in hair loss due to maladies and drug treatments. Mitigating apoptosis can enhance hair growth and minimize hair loss. A comprehensive understanding of the correlation between apoptosis and the hair cycle can facilitate the development of novel treatments to prevent hair loss and stimulate hair regeneration.

MiR-21 regulated hair follicle cycle development in Cashmere goats by targeting FGF18 and SMAD7

Increasing Cashmere production can add value because it is the primary product of Cashmere goats. Recent years, peoples find miRNAs are crucial in regulating the development of hair follicle. Following Solexa sequencing, many miRNAs were distinguishingly expressed in telogen skin samples of goats and sheep in earlier study. But the method through which miR-21 controls the growth of hair follicles is still ambiguous. Bioinformatics analysis was used to predict the target genes of miR-21. The mRNA level of miR-21 in telogen Cashmere goat skins was higher than in anagen, according to the results of qRT-PCR, and the target genes expressed similarly with miR-21. Western blot showed similar trend, the protein expression of FGF18 and SMAD7 were lower in anagen samples. The Dual-Luciferase reporter assay confirmed miRNA-21's relationship with its target gene, and the consequences indicated found FGF18 and SMAD7 have positive correlations with miR-21. Western blot and qRT-PCR distinguished the expression of protein and mRNA in miR-21 and its target genes. According to the consequence, we found that target genes expression was increased by miR-21 in HaCaT cells. This study identified that miR-21 might take part in the development of Cashmere goat's hair follicles by targeting FGF18 and SMAD7.

Nanodrug Delivery Strategies to Signaling Pathways in Alopecia

Over 50% of the global population suffers from hair loss. The mixed results in the treatment of hair loss reveal the limitations of conventional commercial topical drugs. One the one hand, the definite pathogenesis of hair loss is still an enigma. On the other hand, targeted drug carriers ensure the drug therapeutic effect and low side effects. This review highlights the organization and overview of nine crucial signaling pathways associated with hair loss, as well as the development of nanobased topical delivery systems loading the clinical drugs, which will fuel emerging hair loss treatment strategies.

Platelet lysate promotes hair growth: In vitro and in vivo mechanism and randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Platelet lysate (PL), a novel platelet derivative, has been widely used in regenerative medicine and is a potential therapy for improving hair growth. It is necessary to fully clarify the potential mechanism and evaluate preliminary clinical effect of PL on hair growth.

METHODS

We used the C57BL/6 model, organ-cultured hair follicles, and RNA-seq analysis to explore the mechanisms of PL regulating hair growth. Then, we performed a randomized, controlled, double-blind study of 107 AGA patients to verify the therapeutic efficacy of PL.

RESULTS

The results confirmed that PL improved hair growth and accelerated hair cycling in mice. Organ-cultured hair follicle evaluation confirmed that PL prolonged anagen remarkably and down-regulated IL-6, C-FOS, and p-STAT5a. Clinically, diameter, hair counts, absolute anagen counts and changes from baseline in the PL group showed a significant improvement at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

We elucidated the specific molecular mechanism of PL action on hair growth and proved equal changes in hair follicle performance after PL vs PRP in AGA patients. This study provided novel knowledge of PL, making it ideal for AGA.

Innovative Approaches and Advances for Hair Follicle Regeneration

Pathological hair loss (also known as alopecia) and shortage of hair follicle (HF) donors have posed an urgent requirement for HF regeneration. With the revelation of mechanisms in tissue engineering, the proliferation of HFs in vitro has achieved more promising trust for the treatments of alopecia and other skin impairments. Theoretically, HF organoids have great potential to develop into native HFs and attachments such as sweat glands after transplantation. However, since the rich extracellular matrix (ECM) deficiency, the induction characteristics of skin-derived cells gradually fade away along with their trichogenic capacity after continuous cell passaging in vitro. Therefore, ECM-mimicking support is an essential prelude before HF transplantation is implemented. This review summarizes the status of providing various epidermal and dermal cells with a three-dimensional (3D) scaffold to support the cell homeostasis and better mimic in vivo environments for the sake of HF regeneration. HF-relevant cells including dermal papilla cells (DPCs), hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are able to be induced to form HF organoids in the vitro culture system. The niche microenvironment simulated by different forms of biomaterial scaffold can offer the cells a network of ordered growth environment to alleviate inductivity loss and promote the expression of functional proteins. The scaffolds often play the role of ECM substrates and bring about epithelial-mesenchymal interaction (EMI) through coculture to ensure the functional preservation of HF cells during in vitro passage. Functional HF organoids can be formed either before or after transplantation into the dermis layer. Here, we review and emphasize the importance of 3D culture in HF regeneration in vitro. Finally, the latest progress in treatment trials and critical analysis of the properties and benefits of different emerging biomaterials for HF regeneration along with the main challenges and prospects of HF regenerative approaches are discussed.

Adipose Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Exosomes Carrying MiR-122-5p Antagonize the Inhibitory Effect of Dihydrotestosterone on Hair Follicles by Targeting the TGF-β1/SMAD3 Signaling Pathway

Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of hair loss, where local high concentrations of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp cause progressive shrinkage of the hair follicles, eventually contributing to hair loss. Due to the limitations of existing methods to treat AGA, the use of multi-origin mesenchymal stromal cell-derived exosomes has been proposed. However, the functions and mechanisms of action of exosomes secreted by adipose mesenchymal stromal cells (ADSCs-Exos) in AGA are still unclear. Using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) analysis, immunofluorescence staining, scratch assays, and Western blotting, it was found that ADSC-Exos contributed to the proliferation, migration, and differentiation of dermal papilla cells (DPCs) and up-regulated the expression of cyclin, β-catenin, versican, and BMP2. ADSC-Exos also mitigated the inhibitory effects of DHT on DPCs and down-regulated transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) and its downstream genes. Moreover, high-throughput miRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis identified 225 genes that were co-expressed in ADSC-Exos; of these, miR-122-5p was highly enriched and was found by luciferase assays to target SMAD3. ADSC-Exos carrying miR-122-5p antagonized DHT inhibition of hair follicles, up-regulated the expression of β-catenin and versican in vivo and in vitro, restored hair bulb size and dermal thickness, and promoted the normal growth of hair follicles. So, ADSC-Exos enhanced the regeneration of hair follicles in AGA through the action of miR-122-5p and the inhibition of the TGF-β/SMAD3 axis. These results suggest a novel treatment option for the treatment of AGA.

Cold atmospheric microwave plasma (CAMP) stimulates dermal papilla cell proliferation by inducing β-catenin signaling

Hair loss or alopecia is an unpleasant symptom that exacerbates an individual's self-esteem and requires appropriate treatment. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a central pathway that promotes dermal papilla induction and keratinocyte proliferation during hair follicle renewal. GSK-3β inactivated by its upstream Akt and ubiquitin-specific protease 47 (USP47) has been shown to inhibit β-catenin degradation. The cold atmospheric microwave plasma (CAMP) is microwave energy enriched with mixtures of radicals. CAMP has been reported to have antibacterial and antifungal activities with wound healing activity against skin infection; however, the effect of CAMP on hair loss treatment has not been reported. We aimed to investigate the effect of CAMP on promoting hair renewal in vitro and to elucidate the molecular mechanism, targeting β-catenin signaling and YAP/TAZ, the co-activators in the Hippo pathway, in human dermal papilla cells (hDPCs). We also evaluated plasma effects on the interaction between hDPCs and HaCaT keratinocytes. The hDPCs were treated with plasma-activating media (PAM) or gas-activating media (GAM). The biological outcomes were determined by MTT assay, qRT-PCR, western blot analysis, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence. We found that β-catenin signaling and YAP/TAZ were significantly increased in PAM-treated hDPCs. PAM treatment also induced β-catenin translocation and inhibited β-catenin ubiquitination by activating Akt/GSK-3β signaling and upregulating USP47 expression. In addition, hDPCs were more aggregated with keratinocytes in PAM-treated cells compared with control. HaCaT cells cultured in a conditioned medium derived from PAM-treated hDPCs exhibited an enhancing effect on activating YAP/TAZ and β-catenin signaling. These findings suggested that CAMP may be a new therapeutic alternative for alopecic treatment.

Hordenine Activated Dermal Papilla Cells and Promoted Hair Regrowth by Activating Wnt Signaling Pathway

Hordenine is effective in treating hyperpigmentation, fighting diabetes and resisting fibrosis and acute inflammation. However, the role of Hordenine on hair growth has not been elucidated. Here, we found that Hordenine treatments significantly enhance proliferation of primary mouse dermal-papilla cells (DPCs) and increase the activity of DPCs in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, Hordenine markedly promoted the elongation of the hair shaft in the model of in vitro-cultured mouse vibrissa follicle and accelerated hair regrowth in a mouse model of depilation-induced hair regeneration. Real-time PCR, Western Blot and immunofluorescent assays showed that nuclear β-catenin and its downstream gene expression such as Lef1, Axin2, Cyclin D1 and ALP were greatly upregulated in DPCs and mouse hair follicles after Hordenine treatments. Moreover, the increased DPCs' proliferation and hair shaft elongation of cultured mouse vibrissa follicles induced by Hordenine treatments were rescued by a Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibitor, FH535. These data indicate that Hordenine can effectively enhance DPCs' activity and accelerate hair regrowth through activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, these findings suggest Hordenine/its derivatives may be potentially used for preventing and treating alopecia in the future.

The Molecular Mechanism of Natural Products Activating Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway for Improving Hair Loss

Hair loss, or alopecia, is a dermatological disorder that causes psychological stress and poor quality of life. Drug-based therapeutics such as finasteride and minoxidil have been clinically used to treat hair loss, but they have limitations due to their several side effects in patients. To solve this problem, there has been meaningful progress in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of hair growth and finding novel targets to develop therapeutics to treat it. Among various signaling pathways, Wnt/β-catenin plays an essential role in hair follicle development, the hair cycle, and regeneration. Thus, much research has demonstrated that various natural products worldwide promote hair growth by stimulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. This review discusses the functional role of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and its related signaling molecules. We also review the molecular mechanism of the natural products or compounds that activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling and provide insights into developing therapeutics or cosmeceuticals that treat hair loss.

Exosomes Derived from Dermal Papilla Cells Mediate Hair Follicle Stem Cell Proliferation through the Wnt3a/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

Both hair follicle stem cells (HFSC) and dermal papilla cells (DPC) are essential for hair follicle growth and proliferation. In this study, HFSCs and DPCs that made signature proteins like KRT14, KRT15, KRT19, α-SMA, and Versican were obtained. Cell coculture systems between HFSCs and DPCs were used to measure the increased PCNA protein content in HFSCs. Additionally, exosomes from dermal papilla cells (DPC-Exos), the overexpression and silencing of Wnt3a, could regulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway downstream genes. After collecting DPC-ExosOE-Wnt3a, the treatment of HFSC with DPC-ExosOE-Wnt3a showed that DPC-ExosOE-Wnt3a could upregulate the mRNA expression of downstream genes in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and that DPC-ExosOE-Wnt3a enhanced the proliferation of HFSCs while inhibiting their apoptosis. These findings suggest that DPC-Exos could regulate HFSC cell proliferation via the Wnt3a/β-catenin signaling pathway. This research offers novel concepts for the molecular breeding and efficient production of Angora rabbits, as well as for the treatment of human hair problems.

Liposomes as Multifunctional Nano-Carriers for Medicinal Natural Products

Although medicinal natural products and their derivatives have shown promising effects in disease therapies, they usually suffer the drawbacks in low solubility and stability in the physiological environment, low delivery efficiency, side effects due to multi-targeting, and low site-specific distribution in the lesion. In this review, targeted delivery was well-guided by liposomal formulation in the aspects of preparation of functional liposomes, liposomal medicinal natural products, combined therapies, and image-guided therapy. This review is believed to provide useful guidance to enhance the targeted therapy of medicinal natural products and their derivatives.

The application prospects of honokiol in dermatology

Honokiol is one of the natural extracts of Magnolia officinalis. It is a small molecule, lipophilic compound with extensive biological effects. It has been used in the treatment of multisystem diseases, including digestive diseases, endocrine diseases, nervous system diseases, and various tumors. This paper reviews the biological effects of honokiol on the treatment of skin diseases in recent years, including anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-fibrosis, anti-allergy, photo-protection, and immunomodulation. Most current researches are focused on the effects of anti-melanoma and photo-protection. Therefore, we summarized the specific mechanisms about these two effects. On the other side of treating skin diseases, the advantages of topical drugs cannot be replaced. As a small molecule fat-soluble compound, honokiol is suitable for external use. We reviewed the advantages and disadvantages of the topical mixed cream and various improved methods. These improvements include physical and chemical penetration enhancers, drug carriers, and chemical derivatives. In conclusion, honokiol has a wide range of effects, and its topical preparation provides a safe and effective way for treating skin diseases.

Phytochemical Constitution, Anti-Inflammation, Anti-Androgen, and Hair Growth-Promoting Potential of Shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) Extract

In Thai folklore wisdom, shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) was applied as a traditional herbal medicine for hair growth promotion with no scientific evidence. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a progressive hair loss caused by multiple factors, including androgen hormones, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Conventional medicines (finasteride, dutasteride, corticosteroids, and minoxidil) have been used with limited therapeutic efficacy and unpleasant side effects. In this study, we aimed to give the first estimation of bioactive compounds in shallot extract and evaluate the hair growth-promoting activities regarding anti-inflammatory and gene expression modulation involving androgen, Wnt/β-catenin, sonic hedgehog, and angiogenesis pathways. The results reveal that phenolic compounds (quercetin, rosmarinic, and p-coumaric acids) are the major constituents of the methanolic shallot extract. Compared with the lipopolysaccharide-stimulated control group (2.68 ± 0.13 µM), nitric oxide production was remarkably diminished by shallot extract (0.55 ± 0.06 µM). Shallot extract improves hair growth promotion activity, as reflected by the downregulation of the androgen gene expression (SRD5A1 and SRD5A2) and the upregulation of the genes associated with Wnt/β-catenin (CTNNB1), sonic hedgehog (SHH, SMO, and GIL1), and angiogenesis (VEGF) pathways. These findings disclose the new insights of shallot extract on hair growth promotions. Shallot extract could be further developed as nutraceutical, nutricosmetic, and cosmeceutical preparations for AGA treatment.

Morphogenesis, Growth Cycle and Molecular Regulation of Hair Follicles

As one of the main appendages of skin, hair follicles play an important role in the process of skin regeneration. Hair follicle is a tiny organ formed by the interaction between epidermis and dermis, which has complex and fine structure and periodic growth characteristics. The hair growth cycle is divided into three continuous stages, growth (anagen), apoptosis-driven regression (catagen) and relative quiescence (telogen). And The Morphogenesis and cycle of hair follicles are regulated by a variety of signal pathways. When the signal molecules in the pathways are abnormal, it will affect the development and cycle of hair follicles, which will lead to hair follicle-related diseases.This article will review the structure, development, cycle and molecular regulation of hair follicles, in order to provide new ideas for solving diseases and forming functional hair follicle.

Modulation of Hair Growth Promoting Effect by Natural Products

A large number of people suffer from alopecia or hair loss worldwide. Drug-based therapies using minoxidil and finasteride for the treatment of alopecia are available, but they have shown various side effects in patients. Thus, the use of new therapeutic approaches using bioactive products to reduce the risk of anti-hair-loss medications has been emphasized. Natural products have been used since ancient times and have been proven safe, with few side effects. Several studies have demonstrated the use of plants and their extracts to promote hair growth. Moreover, commercial products based on these natural ingredients have been developed for the treatment of alopecia. Several clinical, animal, and cell-based studies have been conducted to determine the anti-alopecia effects of plant-derived biochemicals. This review is a collective study of phytochemicals with anti-alopecia effects, focusing mainly on the mechanisms underlying their hair-growth-promoting effects.