Modulation of Hair Growth Promoting Effect by Natural Products

Small molecule agents against alopecia: Potential targets and related pathways

Alopecia has emerged as a global concern, extending beyond the middle-aged and elderly population and increasingly affecting younger individuals. Despite its growing prevalence, the treatment options and effective drugs for alopecia remain limited due to the incomplete understanding of its underlying mechanisms. Therefore, it is urgent to explore the pathogenesis of alopecia and discover novel and safer therapeutic agents. This review provided an overview of the prevailing clinical disorders of alopecia, and the key pathways and targets involved in hair growth process. Additionally, it discusses FDA-approved drugs and clinical candidates for the treatment of alopecia, and explores small molecule compounds with anti-alopecia potential in the drug discovery phase. These endeavors are expected to provide researchers with valuable scientific insights and practical information for anti-alopecia drug discovery.

Enhancing hair regeneration: Recent progress in tailoring nanostructured lipid carriers through surface modification strategies

Background and purpose

Hair loss is a prevalent problem affecting millions of people worldwide, necessitating innovative and efficient regrowth approaches. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) have become a hopeful option for transporting bioactive substances to hair follicles because of their compatibility with the body and capability to improve drug absorption.

Review approach

Recently, surface modification techniques have been used to enhance hair regeneration by improving the customization of NLCs. These techniques involve applying polymers, incorporating targeting molecules, and modifying the surface charge.

Key results

The conversation focuses on how these techniques enhance stability, compatibility with the body, and precise delivery to hair follicles within NLCs. Moreover, it explains how surface-modified NLCs can improve the bioavailability of hair growth-promoting agents like minoxidil and finasteride. Furthermore, information on how surface-modified NLCs interact with hair follicles is given, uncovering their possible uses in treating hair loss conditions.

Conclusion

This review discusses the potential of altering the surface of NLCs to customize them for enhanced hair growth. It offers important information for upcoming studies on hair growth.

Combination of Autophagy and Stem Cell Enhancing Properties of Natural Product Extracts in Human Dermal Papilla Stem Cells

BACKGROUND/AIM

Dermal papilla (DP) stem cells are known for their remarkable regenerative capacity, making them a valuable model for assessing the effects of natural products on cellular processes, including stemness, and autophagy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Autophagy and stemness characteristics were assessed using real-time RT-PCR to analyze mRNA levels, along with immunofluorescence and western blot techniques for protein level evaluation.

RESULTS

Butterfly Pea, Emblica Fruits, Kaffir Lime, and Thunbergia Laurifolia extracts induced autophagy in DP cells. Kaffir Lime-treated cells exhibited increase in the OCT4, NANOG, and SOX2 mRNA (6-, 5, and 5.5-fold, respectively), and protein levels (4-, 3-, and 1.5-fold, respectively). All extracts activated the survival protein kinase B (Akt) in DP cells.

CONCLUSION

Natural products are a promising source for promoting hair growth by rejuvenating hair stem cells.

Biotransformation of Cacumen platycladi Extract by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCFM1348 Promotes Hair Growth in Mice

Cacumen platycladi (CP) is a frequently used traditional Chinese medicine to treat hair loss. In this study, CP fermented by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCFM1348 increased the proliferation of human dermal papilla cells. In an in vivo assay, compared to nonfermented CP, postbiotics (fermented CP) and synbiotics (live bacteria with nonfermented CP) promoted hair growth in mice. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays crucial roles in the development of hair follicles, including growth cycle restart and maintenance. Both postbiotics and synbiotics upregulated β-catenin, a major factor of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Postbiotics and synbiotics also increased the vascular endothelial growth factor expression and decreased the BAX/Bcl2 ratio in the dorsal skin of mice. These results suggest that fermented CP by L. plantarum CCFM1348 may promote hair growth through regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, promoting the expression of growth factors and reducing apoptosis.

β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Promotes Cell Proliferation and Hair Growth by Reducing Oxidative Stress

β-Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) has shown promising effects on intestinal health, and it is extensively applied as an anti-aging and Alzheimer's disease therapeutic, due to its medicinal properties. The effects of NMN on the growth of mouse hair were observed after hair removal. The results indicated that NMN can reverse the state of hair follicle atrophy, hair thinning, and hair sparsity induced by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), compared to that of minoxidil. In addition, the action mechanisms of NMN promoting hair growth in cultured human dermal papilla cells (HDPCs) treated with DHT were investigated in detail. The incubation of HDPCs with DHT led to a decrease in cell viability and the release of inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1Beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor Alpha (TNF-α). It was found that NMN can significantly lower the release of inflammatory factors induced by DHT in HDPCs. HDPCs cells are protected from oxidative stress damage by NMN, which inhibits the NF-κB p65 inflammatory signaling pathway. Moreover, the levels of androgen receptor (AR), dickkopf-1 (DKK-1), and β-catenin in the HDPCs were assessed using PCR, indicating that NMN can significantly enhance the expression of VEGF, reduced IL-6 levels and suppress the expression of AR and DKK-1, and notably increase β-catenin expression in DHT-induced HDPCs.

An androgenetic alopecia remedy based on marine collagen peptide-incorporated dissolving microneedles

Given that current androgenetic alopecia (AGA) medications have adverse effects such as sexual dysfunction and drug dependence, researchers are actively exploring natural bioactive ingredients and innovative approaches (e.g., transdermal drug delivery systems) to effectively combat hair loss with minimal side effects. Herein, we develop a new transdermal drug delivery system incorporating globefish skin collagen peptides with dissolving microneedles (GSCPs-MNs) for hair regrowth. These microneedles generate skin micro-wounds upon application, which not only improves the efficiency of bioactive ingredients delivery, but also stimulates signals involved in hair follicle (HF) regeneration. Our in vivo study shows that minimally invasive implanted GSCPs-MNs are more effective than topical GSCPs in reducing inflammation and promoting collagen formation. Additionally, the upregulation of vascular markers including VEGF and CD31 alongside the downregulation of TNF-α, IL-1β, and malondialdehyde (MDA) index indicate that GSCPs-MNs can significantly alleviate inflammation and oxidation, as well as promoting vascularization and HF functionalization. Overall, our findings suggest that GSCPs-MNs can effectively promote hair regrowth in AGA mice, which offer excellent prospects for the development of new therapeutics and cosmetic supplements for hair loss, along with the combined drug delivery optimization, which could alleviate hair loss in patients with AGA.

Status of research on the development and regeneration of hair follicles

Hair loss, or alopecia, is a prevalent condition in modern society that imposes substantial mental and psychological burden on individuals. The types of hair loss, include androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, and telogen effluvium; of them, androgenetic alopecia is the most common condition. Traditional treatment modalities mainly involve medical options, such as minoxidil, finasteride and surgical interventions, such as hair transplantation. However, these treatments still have many limitations. Therefore, exploring the pathogenesis of hair loss, specifically focusing on the development and regeneration of hair follicles (HFs), and developing new strategies for promoting hair regrowth are essential. Some emerging therapies for hair loss have gained prominence; these therapies include low-level laser therapy, micro needling, fractional radio frequency, platelet-rich plasma, and stem cell therapy. The aforementioned therapeutic strategies appear promising for hair loss management. In this review, we investigated the mechanisms underlying HF development and regeneration. For this, we studied the structure, development, cycle, and cellular function of HFs. In addition, we analyzed the symptoms, types, and causes of hair loss as well as its current conventional treatments. Our study provides an overview of the most effective regenerative medicine-based therapies for hair loss.

Hair Growth-Promoting Effects of Rosehip (Rosa canina L.) Seed Oil in C57BL/6 Mice

Rosehip (Rosa canina L.) seeds, a by-product of the food processing industry, contain various bioactive compounds that have potential cosmetic and pharmacological applications. Rosehip seed oil (RHSO) has been shown to exert therapeutic effects in skin disorders, but its role in promoting hair growth remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the hair growth-promoting activity of RHSO and the related mechanisms of action. The depleted dorsal skin of telogenic C57BL/6 mice was topically treated with RHSO for 21 days, and the extent of hair regrowth was assessed. The results indicated that RHSO stimulated hair growth by inducing the early transition of hair follicles from telogen to anagen phase. Histological analysis revealed significant increases in hair follicle density, hair bulb size, and skin thickness. RHSO treatment also upregulated the expression of hair growth-associated genes, including β-catenin, phospho-glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta, Sonic hedgehog, smoothened, cyclin D1, cyclin E, and insulin like growth factor 1. These findings suggest that RHSO stimulates hair growth and may show promise as a preventive and/or therapeutic agent for hair loss.

Astragalus membranaceus and Cinnamomum cassia Stimulate the Hair Follicle Differentiation-Related Growth Factor by the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

Astragalus membranaceus and Cinnamomum cassia are used as spices and flavorful ingredients, or medicinal herbs with pharmacological effects. In this study, the hair-growth-promoting effects of the YH complex, a newly developed formula consisting of membranaceus and C. cassia, are investigated with the prediction of its molecular mechanism. The target gene of the YH complex was about 74.8% overlapped with the gene set of 'Hair growth' on the GO Biological Process database. The oral administration of the YH complex promoted hair regrowth and increased hair-shaft thickness in depilated hair loss mice. In addition, the anagen/telogen hair follicle ratio was significantly increased by the YH complex. The growth factors affecting the growth of hair follicles were dose-dependently increased by treatment with the YH complex. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway expressions in skin tissues were apparently increased by the administration of the YH complex. In conclusion, the YH complex consisting of A. membranaceus and C. cassia induced hair follicle differentiation and preserved the growing-anagen phase by increasing growth factors and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, leading to the restoration of hair loss. The YH complex can be a remedy for hair loss diseases, such as alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, and chemotherapy-induced alopecia.

Simultaneous Determination of Three Flavonoids in Rat Plasma of Masson Pinus Needles (Pinus massoniana L.) Extracts by UHPLC-MS/MS and Application to Pharmacokinetics Studies after Oral and Transdermal Administration

Pinus massoniana needles, a traditional herb, were applied to prevent hair loss in China. Studies available mainly focused on pine needle flavonoids with various biological activities. However, there has been no pharmacokinetics study of the flavonoids from Pinus needles extract. A selective and sensitive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed to simultaneously quantify taxifolin, quercetin and catechin in rat plasma. To separate the three constituents, an Agilent Extend-C18 column (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) was used with a mobile phrase of (A) 0.1% formic acid and (B) acetonitrile. The analytes were measured by multiple reaction monitoring in the negative ionization mode. There was good linearity in the established UHPLC-MS/MS method, with a coefficient of determination (r2) of >0.99. The accuracy, intra-day and inter-day precision and recovery were all satisfactory and these 3 compounds were stable under the tested conditions. The validated method in this study was successfully applied to pharmacokinetic study in healthy rats after oral and transdermal administration of Pinus needles extract. The results could provide further research foundation for pine needle extract as external preparations.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Shi-Bi-Man regulates lactic acid metabolism and drives hair follicle stem cell activation to promote hair regeneration

BACKGROUND

As a supplement for promoting hair health, Shi-Bi-Man (SBM) is a prescription comprising various traditional Chinese medicines. Though SBM has been reported to promote hair regeneration, its molecular mechanism remains unclear. Cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) are non-human primates with a gene expression profile similar to that of humans. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the effect of SBM on promoting hair regeneration in cynomolgus monkeys and to reveal the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The effect of SBM on hair regeneration was observed by skin administration on 6 cynomolgus monkeys with artificial back shaving. The molecular mechanism of SBM was studied using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) in combination with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) detection for gene transcription level, and immunofluorescence staining verification for protein level.

RESULTS

SBM significantly induced hair regeneration in cynomolgus monkeys, increased hair follicle number and facilitated hair follicle development. ScRNA-seq revealed an increase in the number of hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) with a higher activation state, as evidenced by the higher expression of activation marker LDHA related to metabolism and the proliferation marker MKI67. Immunofluorescence analysis at the protein level and qPCR at the mRNA level confirmed the sequencing data. Cellchat analysis revealed an enrichment of ligand-receptor pairs involved in intercellular communication in Laminin-related pathways.

CONCLUSION

SBM significantly promotes hair regeneration in cynomolgus monkeys. Mechanically, SBM can up-regulate LDHA-mediated lactic acid metabolism and drive HFSC activation, which in turn promotes the proliferation and differentiation of HFSCs.

Biomolecules of Fermented Tropical Fruits and Fermenting Microbes as Regulators of Human Hair Loss, Hair Quality, and Scalp Microbiota

Plant-derived secondary metabolites (polyphenols/terpenes/alkaloids) and microbial exometabolites/membrane components of fermented tropical fruits are known as highly bioavailable biomolecules causing skin and hair improvement effects (wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiacne, skin/hair microbiota balancing, hair growth-promoting, and hair loss-inhibiting). Caffein is considered as a hair growth promoter. A randomized placebo- and caffein-controlled clinical trial on the efficacy of fermented papaya (FP) plus fermented mangosteen (FM) towards human hair quality and loss was conducted. Shampoo and lotion hair care products containing FP, FM, and caffein as active agents were developed and applied to 154 subjects of both sexes with clinically confirmed androgenic or diffuse alopecia for 3 months. Their clinical efficacy was assessed subjectively by questionnaires filled in by dermatologists/trichologists, and by the objective trichomicroscopical calculations. Hair and scalp skin quality was determined by microbiota pattern and ATP, SH-groups, protein, and malonyl dialdehyde quantification. Comparative clinical data showed that the experimental hair care cosmetics significantly inhibited hair loss, increased hair density/thickness, and improved hair follicle structure versus placebo and caffein controls. The cosmetics with FP and FM substantially normalized the microbiota pattern and increased ATP content in hair follicle, while inhibiting lipid peroxidation in the scalp skin, and SH-group formation in the hair shaft.

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.

Mechanistic synergy of hair growth promotion by the Avicennia marina extract and its active constituent (avicequinone C) in dermal papilla cells isolated from androgenic alopecia patients

Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is associated with an increased production of 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by steroid-5α-reductase (5α-R). Crude extracts from Avicennia marina (AM) and its active constituent, avicequinone C (AC), can inhibit 5α-R. We have, herein, explored the potential use of the AM extract and of AC as anti-AGA agents. To this end, we employed human dermal papilla cells (DPCs) isolated from AGA patients' hair that express 5α-R type-1 as well as the androgenic receptor (AR) at high levels. Our in vitro experiments revealed that the AM extract (10 μg/mL) and the AC (10 μM) exhibit multiple actions that interfere with the mechanism that causes AGA. Beside acting as 5α-R inhibitors, both preparations were able to inhibit either the DHT-AR complex formation or its translocation from the cytoplasm into the nucleus (the site of DHT's action). The treatments also increased the gene expression of growth factors in DPCs; these factors play important roles in the angiogenesis associated with hair growth. Moreover, the AM extract suppressed the apoptotic pathway, thereby postponing the initiation of the catagen phase. Taken together, our findings suggest that the AM extract and the AC could serve as natural sources for hair growth promotion and AGA treatment.

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.