Common Form Of Hair Loss Research Articles

The Impact of Smoking and Lifestyle Factors on Hair Transplant Outcomes in Patients with Androgenic Alopecia

Background: Hair transplantation is a popular treatment for androgenic alopecia, a common form of hair loss that significantly affects self-esteem and quality of life. However, it is important to note that smoking can potentially have a detrimental impact on the efficacy of this procedure. Objectives: The objective of this study is to examine the influence of smoking, alcohol consumption, and water pipe usage on hair density and growth rate in individuals with alopecia who have undergone hair transplantation at the Jordan Clinic in Tehran, Iran. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 23 smoker and 97 non-smoker patients who underwent hair transplantation at the Jordan Clinic between 2011 and 2013. A convenience sampling method was employed in the study. Data on smoking status, hair growth, and complications were collected and analyzed. The study included 94.2% male and 5.8% female patients. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 13. The repeated measures ANOVA test was used for statistical analysis, with a significance level of five percent. Results: The results showed that smokers experienced spontaneous bleeding at the implant site after surgery, resulting in hairless areas following crust formation, a complication not observed in non-smokers (P > 0.05). Smokers also had significantly lower hair density and growth compared to non-smokers (P > 0.05). Additionally, alcohol users demonstrated significantly less hair growth than non-drinkers. Conclusions: Smoking—including cigarettes, hookah, and combined smoking—and alcohol consumption negatively impacted hair transplant outcomes in patients with androgenic alopecia treated at the Jordan Clinic. These findings underscore the importance of addressing lifestyle factors, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, in the management of androgenic alopecia and hair transplantation.

The efficacy of light-guiding microneedle patch for stimulating hair growth in androgenetic alopecia.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of hair loss characterized by miniaturization of hair follicles. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) and microneedling have shown potential in promoting hair regrowth. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of an innovative light-emitting diode (LED) helmet cooperated with a novel light-guiding microneedle patch (LMNP) for stimulating hair growth in AGA. In this randomized clinical trial, 16 AGA patients received treatments using light-guiding microneedle patches (LMNPs) illuminated by a LED helmet equipped with green (522nm) and red (633nm) LEDs, delivering 50mW/cm2 power and 40J/cm2 energy. Treatments were applied weekly for 24weeks, targeting the frontal recession area. The right side of the scalp was treated with green light and the left with red light, each combined with a LMNP featuring 900µm height needles at a density of 105 per square centimeter. Hair density and diameter, along with patient and physician satisfaction scores, were assessed monthly. Both red and green LED treatments with LMNP, significantly enhanced hair density and diameter. Satisfaction scores, as reported by both physicians and participants, increased over time. Comparative analyses revealed no statistically significant differences in average satisfaction scores or in changes in hair density and diameter between the groups by the end of the study. Additionally, no serious adverse effects were reported, highlighting the safety of the treatments. The combined Light sources which is portable LED helmet and LMNPs shows promise as a non-invasive, effective treatment for AGA, with similar efficacy between red and green wavelengths.

Exploring the association between alcohol consumption and androgenic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is widely recognized as the most common form of hair loss and can significantly affect individuals' quality of life. The association between alcohol consumption and AGA remains uncertain and controversial. Our primary objective is to investigate the relationship between alcohol consumption and AGA. We identified studies from multiple databases, including Embase, MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science, up to March 2024. For alcohol consumption, we included studies where it was defined as a categorical variable, such as Yes/No or classified by grams. For AGA, only cases that were clinically diagnosed were included. Odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals were extracted from the included studies. Subgroup analyses were conducted, considering factors such as gender and study design. Our findings indicated that individuals who consume alcohol had an OR of AGA compared to those who do not drink alcohol (OR, 1.40; 95% CI: .95-2.06; k = 6; I2= 77%). In the subgroup analysis focusing on men, an OR for alopecia was observed (OR, 1.31; 95% CI: .85-2.01; k = 4; I2= 78%). Additionally, a subgroup analysis based on study design revealed ORs of 1.93 (95% CI: 1.32-2.82; k = 3; I2= 47%) for cross-sectional studies, and 1.69 (95% CI: 1.33-2.14; k = 2; I2= 0%) for case-control studies. Our results suggest that the effect of alcohol consumption on AGA may be less than initially assumed. Future research will require large, carefully planned cohort studies that incorporate standardized diagnostic criteria to provide more definitive insights. CRD42022303374.

Improvement of androgenic alopecia by extracellular vesicles secreted from hyaluronic acid-stimulated induced mesenchymal stem cells

BackgroundAndrogenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hair loss. Androgens, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, are the main causes of AGA. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can reduce AGA. However, preparing therapeutic doses of MSCs for clinical use is challenging. Induced pluripotent stem cell-derived MSCs (iMSCs) are homogenous and easily expandable, enabling scalable production of EVs. Hyaluronic acid (HA) can exert various functions including free radical scavenging, immune regulation, and cell migration. Herein, we examined whether hyaluronic acid (HA) stimulation of iMSCs could produce EVs with enhanced therapeutic outcomes for AGA.MethodsEVs were collected from iMSCs primed with HA (HA–iMSC–EVs) or without HA (iMSC–EVs). The characteristics of EVs were examined using dynamic light scattering, cryo-transmission electron microscopy, immunoblotting, flow cytometry, and proteomic analysis. In vitro, we compared the potential of EVs in stimulating the survival of hair follicle dermal papilla cells undergoing testosterone-mediated AGA. Additionally, the expression of androgen receptor (AR) and relevant growth factors as well as key proteins of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway (β-catenin and phosphorylated GSK3β) was analyzed. Subsequently, AGA was induced in male C57/BL6 mice by testosterone administration, followed by repeated injections of iMSC–EVs, HA–iMSC–EVs, finasteride, or vehicle. Several parameters including hair growth, anagen phase ratio, reactivation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and AR expression was examined using qPCR, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence analysis.ResultsBoth types of EVs showed typical characteristics for EVs, such as size distribution, markers, and surface protein expression. In hair follicle dermal papilla cells, the mRNA levels of AR, TGF-β, and IL-6 increased by testosterone was blocked by HA–iMSC–EVs, which also contributed to the augmented expression of trophic genes related to hair regrowth. However, no notable changes were observed in the iMSC–EVs. Re-activation of Wnt/β-catenin was observed in HA–iMSC–EVs but not in iMSC–EVs, as shown by β-catenin stabilization and an increase in phosphorylated GSK3β. Restoration of hair growth was more significant in HA–iMSC–EVs than in iMSC–EVs, and was comparable to that in mice treated with finasteride. Consistently, the decreased anagen ratio induced by testosterone was reversed by HA–iMSC–EVs, but not by iMSC–EVs. An increased expression of hair follicular β-catenin protein, as well as the reduction of AR was observed in the skin tissue of AGA mice receiving HA–iMSC–EVs, but not in those treated with iMSC–EVs.ConclusionsOur results suggest that HA–iMSC–EVs have potential to improve AGA by regulating growth factors/cytokines and stimulating AR-related Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Genomic Markers and Personalized Medicine in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Comprehensive Review

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of hair loss, significantly affecting both men and women worldwide. Characterized by progressive hair thinning and loss, AGA is primarily mediated by dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Recent research has identified numerous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with AGA, particularly in genes involved in androgen metabolism, prostaglandin pathways, and vasodilation. These genetic markers offer insights into AGA pathophysiology and potential therapeutic targets. Pharmacogenetics, the study of how genetic variations influence drug response, holds promise for personalized AGA treatment. Identifying SNPs that affect the efficacy of treatments like minoxidil and finasteride enables the development of tailored therapeutic strategies. For instance, genetic variants in the SRD5A2 gene, which affects DHT metabolism, can predict responsiveness to 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. Beyond pharmacogenetics, RNA interference (RNAi) technologies, e.g., small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), present new therapeutic avenues. Studies have shown the efficacy of RNAi-based treatments in targeting androgen receptors, promoting hair growth in AGA models. Integrating genetic and pharmacogenetic research into clinical practice can transform AGA management, enhancing treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. In conclusion, genetic and pharmacogenetic insights are crucial for developing personalized treatments for AGA, while emerging RNAi technologies offer promising new interventions. These advancements represent significant steps toward more effective and individualized AGA therapies.

Current Protocols: Alopecia Areata Mouse Models for Drug Efficacy and Mechanism Studies.

Alopecia areata is the second most common form of hair loss in humans after androgenetic alopecia. Although a variety of animal models for alopecia areata have been described, currently the C3H/HeJ mouse model is the most commonly used and accepted. Spontaneous hair loss occurs in 15%-25% of older mice in which the lesions wax and wane, similar to the human disease, with alopecia being more common and severe in female mice. Full-thickness skin grafts from mice with spontaneous alopecia areata to young, normal-haired, histocompatible mice provide a highly reproducible model with progressive lesions that makes it useful for drug efficacy and mechanism-based studies. As alopecia areata is a cell-mediated autoimmune disease, transfer of cultured lymph node cells from affected mice to unaffected, histocompatible recipients also promotes disease development and provides an alternative, nonsurgical protocol. Protocols are presented to produce these models such that they can be used to study alopecia areata and to develop novel drug therapies. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Full-thickness skin grafts to reproducibly induce alopecia areata in C3H/HeJ mice Basic Protocol 2: Adoptive transfer of cultured lymphoid cells provides a nonsurgical method to induce alopecia areata in C3H/HeJ mice.

Association between PITX2 polymorphism and androgenetic alopecia in the Indian population.

Background Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, is a common form of hair loss influenced by environmental, hormonal, and genetic factors. According to recent research, the PITX2 gene may play a key role in the pathophysiology of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Objective This study examines the association between genetic variants of the PITX2 gene and AGA risk. Methods The genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples collected from 70 male AGA patients and 60 non-androgenetic alopecia controls. The isolated DNA was quantified and the genotype for three PITX2 polymorphisms (rs2200733, rs10033464, and rs13143308) was identified using TaqMan assays. The statistical analysis was done to determine the allele frequency of genetic variants between AGA and non-AGA groups. Result The demographic profile of the study population showed that the AGA and non-AGA groups differed in age. The AGA group had higher blood pressure, a higher prevalence of smoking, alcohol consumption, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and a higher incidence of family history. Through genetic analysis, significant correlations were found between AGA risk and specific PITX2 polymorphisms, significantly with the rs2200733 allele (OR = 6.08, p < 0.001*), the rs1003464 G allele (OR = 2.02, p < 0.019*) and the rs13143308 showed GT genotype (OR = 4.26, p < 0.001*). Conclusion Based on our findings, the PITX2 polymorphisms may play a vital role in the development of AGA. This study also found the interactions between genetic and environmental factors in AGA pathogenesis.

The psychosocial impact of alopecia in men: A mixed-methods survey study.

The most common forms of hair loss in men, alopecia areata (AA) (an autoimmune condition) and androgenetic alopecia (AGA) (pattern baldness), alter individuals' appearance in ways that may impact psychological and social wellbeing. We currently have a limited understanding about this impact of alopecia in men, their support needs, and preferences. We sought to investigate and explore the psychosocial impact of alopecia on men, alongside their experiences of treatment and support. The study used a mixed methods cross-sectional online survey with 177 men aged 17-79: 83 with AGA and 94 with AA. Quantitative questions included purpose-made rating scales of men's support experiences, and standardised measures of wellbeing and appearance-focused anxiety. Qualitative data comprised participants' answers to an open-ended question asking about their subjectively salient experiences related to their alopecia. The combined findings indicate that while participants in both subsamples had sought minimal support for psychosocial concerns, such concerns were in fact commonplace. Over half of participants (56%-57%) shared qualitative accounts of depleted confidence, while wellbeing scores were on average lower than matched norms. Participants identifying as sexual minority also reported greater appearance-focused anxiety compared to those identifying as straight. The apparent contrast between participants' minimal help-seeking and accounts of affected wellbeing suggests an unmet support need for men with alopecia. Masculine norms may impede men from accessing psychosocial support, both by discouraging help-seeking behaviours and by encouraging minimisation of appearance concerns. The findings also suggest sexual minority status may pose a greater risk of distress in affected men.

Pattern hair loss and health care professionals: How well are we connecting with our audience?

Pattern hair loss, the most common form of hair loss, affects millions in the United States. Americans are increasingly seeking health information from social media. It would appear that healthcare professionals contribute relatively minimally to pattern hair loss content, thereby posing serious concerns for credibility and quality of information available to the general public. This study evaluates popular pattern hair loss-related content on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, aiming to understand effective engagement strategies for healthcare professionals on social media. The top 60 short-form videos were extracted from Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, using the search term "pattern hair loss" and inclusion of USA-based accounts only. Videos were categorized by creator type (healthcare vs. non-healthcare professional), content type (informational, interactional, and transactional), and analyzed for user engagement and quality, using engagement ratios and DISCERN scores, respectively. Healthcare professionals, especially dermatologists, play a crucial role in delivering credible information on social media, supported by higher DISCERN scores. Multi-platform presence, frequent activity, and strategic content creation contributes to increased reach and engagement. Duration of short-form videos does not impact engagement. The "Duet" or "Remix" options on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube serve as a valuable tool for healthcare professionals to counter misinformation. Our study underscores the importance of optimizing educational impact provided by health care professionals at a time when the public increasingly relies on social media for medical information.

The Role of rs6152 Allele and Non-Genetic Factors in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Pilot Study in the Indonesian Local Population

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hair loss which inflicts progressive hair loss leading to various patterns. The cause of this disease is believed to be multifactorial, which is majorly attributed to genetic and non-genetic factors. This pilot study aimed to investigate the association of rs6152 allele, a SNP on AR gene, with AGA, as well as explore other contributing factors in the Indonesian local population.&#x0D; Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 100 participants, which categorized into alopecia subjects and non-alopecia subjects, were enrolled for rs6152 SNPs detection. Anthropomorphic data such as height and weight, blood pressure and family history were obtained by measurement and questionnaire.&#x0D; Results: The study showed low frequency of individuals with rs6152 non-risk alleles (2%) and further analysis showed no significant association between rs6152 allele and AGA. However, familial history analysis revealed a strong association between family history and AGA risks. Additionally, age, gender, hypertension status and BMI were identified as significant factors associated (p-value &lt; 0.05) with AGA.&#x0D; Conclusion: rs6152 was not a reliable genetic marker for AGA in the Indonesian local population. While familial history with AGA showed the inheritance pattern of autosomal dominant inheritance with sex limitation, non-genetic factors such as age, gender, hypertension status and BMI were strongly associated with AGA risk. This shows the complexity and multifactorial causes of AGA in the Indonesian local population.

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and its derivative vitisin A alleviate androgenetic alopecia by exerting anti-androgen effect and inhibiting dermal papilla cell apoptosis

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), one of the most common forms of hair loss, lacks satisfactory treatment methods in modern society. This study employed an experimental design combining in vitro and in vivo approaches to explore the effects of Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) and Carboxypyranocyanidin-3-O-glucoside (Vitisin A) on AGA. In human dermal papilla cells (HDPCs), both anthocyanins demonstrated inhibitory effects on androgen receptors, significantly reduced dihydrotestosterone (DHT) induced apoptosis of HDPCs, and regulated the secretion of Fibroblast growth factor 7 and Transforming growth factor beta 1. In vitro transdermal experiment revealed that both C3G and Vitisin A could penetrate mice skin, aided by the application of cream. Furthermore, in vivo experiments with mice indicated that application of C3G or Vitisin A cream effectively improved hair follicles miniaturization, regression, and apoptosis caused by DHT. The repression of Wnt10b and β-catenin expression induced by DHT was prevented by C3G and Vitisin A in both cell and mouse model. Consequently, these findings suggest that C3G and Vitisin A could be considered as alternative methods for alleviating AGA.

663 Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Scalp Following Synthetic Hair Transplantation: A Case Report

Abstract Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss. Surgical treatment options include autologous and synthetic hair transplantation. Synthetic hair fibres can overcome the challenges of poor hair quality and density however there are reports of severe cutaneous complications following their use. We report a case of an advanced squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the scalp in an adult male patient following chronic artificial hair transplants. The fungating mass eroded the inner cortex of the left parietal bone without intra-cranial extension on CT. Indeterminate lymph nodes in the parotid gland and level III of the left neck were identified on CT and MRI. Resection of the artificial hair fibres and SCC with a craniectomy, total parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation and upper neck dissection were performed. There was extensive dural involvement not detected on pre-operative imaging, which involved the superior sagittal sinus and was unresectable. The dural disease was fulgurated. The defect was reconstructed with a titanium plate and DIEP flap. Final histopathology showed a moderately differentiated pT4a N0 M0 SCC. The patient received adjuvant proton beam therapy and at 18 months post-operatively is recurrence free. Development of scalp SCC following synthetic hair transplantation has been described, although a clear causation has not been defined. Clinicians should be aware of this presentation and aim to achieve an early diagnosis, timely referral to an appropriate specialist and prompt management.

Efficacy of Ablative Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Alone and Combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia

Abstract Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hair loss in both men and women. In men, this condition is also known as male-pattern baldness. Fractional CO2 laser treatment has effectively induced hair regrowth through the wound-healing process. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) ensures local delivery of growth factors, modification of the inflammatory response, and stimulation of cell proliferation and differentiation within the target tissue. PRP therefore showed a beneficial effect in treatment of AGA. Aim of the Study The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of ablative carbon dioxide (CO2) fractional laser alone or combined with platelets rich plasma therapy in the treatment of Male Androgenetic Alopecia. Patients and Methods The study included 35 patients suffering from AGA. All patients will receive bilateral ablative fractional CO2 laser treatment on the alopecic scalp and the right or left side of the scalp will be randomly selected to be covered with platelet-rich plasma and the other half of the scalp will be covered with saline after the laser at the same session. Results Combined ablative fractional CO2 laser treatment and platelet-rich plasma showed statistically significant improvement compared to ablative fractional CO2 laser alone.

Association between androgenetic alopecia and periodontitis.

Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is men's most common form of hair loss. It is affected by changes in the expression and activity of 5αR and the metabolism of testosterone and DHT. There is an association between AGA and systemic inflammatory diseases. We hypothesized that there is an association between AGA and periodontal disease, as inflamed gingiva and periodontal fibroblasts have been shown to express more 5αR. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the relationship between periodontal disease and AGA and the potential effect of aging on this association. Out of a cohort of 1088 individuals, 385 white males aged 25-65 with similar socioeconomic levels and without systemic disease were included. Periodontitis was defined using NHANES data. AGA was evaluated using the Norwood-Hamilton scale. The relationship between AGA, periodontal disease severity, and age was assessed. There was a correlation between age and baldness (r = .421, p < .001). There was a significant correlation between AGA and periodontal disease in younger patients aged 25-34 and 35-44. (p < .042 and p < .036, respectively). There was no significant correlation between AGA and periodontal disease in the 45-54 and 55-65 age groups (p > .05). There may be a relationship between periodontal disease and AGA in the 25-44 age range, suggesting that this association starts at an early age in adulthood.

A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial to evaluate the effect of an Annurca apple supplement formula in androgenic alopecia

Androgenic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss, affecting men and women at different ages. The role of natural bioactive compounds has gained increasing recognition as a potential means to address hair loss. There is great interest in oligomeric procyanidins, particularly procyanidin B2, which have been shown to possess hair-growing activity. Annurca (Malus pumila Miller cv Annurca) apple fruits have one of the highest amounts of oligomeric procyanidins, specifically of procyanidin B2, compared to more common apple cultivars. In this study, randomized double-blind controlled parallel group trial was performed to compare the efficacy of the Annurca apple fruit extract as nutraceutical AT HAIR-FUL AA® food supplement with a placebo in hair growth. AT HAIR-FUL AA® procyanidin B2 whole fruit (peel and pulp) is characterized by a complex mixture of polyphenolic compounds, especially chlorogenic acid (400 - 600 μg/g) and procyanidin B2 (60-100 μg/g). The products were assigned to 80 enrolled subjects with alopecia, divided into 2 groups: 40 subjects took AT HAIR-FUL AA® food supplement and 40 subjects took the alternative treatment (PLACEBO). Each group of volunteers underwent 180 days of treatment, with the intake of 2 capsules per day. After that, volunteers took nothing for 30 consecutive days (follow up). The AT HAIR-FUL AA® food supplement significantly affected hair loss: hair density and weight significantly increased and hair loss significantly decreased over time (p&lt;0.001). Moreover, we observed a fairly good pleasantness and a good skin and gastro-intestinal tolerability of the product, confirming its compliance of use: the product did not have a significant effect on gastrointestinal disorder and stomach ache onset (p=0.41 and p=0.25, respectively). AT HAIR-FUL AA® food supplement could be used as potential agent to induce hair growth.

Low-dose Oral Minoxidil in the Treatment of Alopecia: Evidence and Experience-based Consensus Statement of Indian Experts.

Alopecia is a highly prevalent condition worldwide including in India. There are different types of alopecia with differing etiology, presentation, and hence treatment. Androgenetic alopecia represents the most common form of hair loss affecting male as well as female population termed as male and female pattern hair loss, respectively. Several treatment options are available for the treatment of alopecia with often unsatisfactory results resulting in psychological distress among such patients. Topical minoxidil is known to be effective in the treatment of alopecia. However, oral minoxidil is not currently approved for the treatment of alopecia. This expert consensus is prepared to provide guidance to the clinicians regarding the use of oral minoxidil in the treatment of alopecia. Extensive literature review was performed to prepare the draft consensus which was then revised based on the suggestions and comments from the experts. The final draft was circulated to the experts for review and approval. This consensus document provides overview of evidence related to oral minoxidil and consensus from the experts for its use in the treatment of minoxidil.

Commonly used hair oils in the Black community: a narrative review in their use to treat androgenetic alopecia.

Alopecia, the loss of hair on the scalp and/or body, experienced by millions of people worldwide, can be a very debilitating condition. Specifically, androgenetic alopecia (AGA), commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most common form of hair loss. In the African diaspora, oils have traditionally been used to promote hair growth and recently, the application of hair oils to the scalp for the treatment of alopecia has become increasingly popular. With the recent surge of hair oil usage in the Black community, more research is needed to determine the efficacy of hair oils, as most studies have primarily used mice subjects. This article reviews the existing literature to better understand the use of hair oils in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Specifically, we investigate the popular carrier oils, castor oil, and pumpkin oil as well as the essential oils, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, and tea tree oil.

A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Clinical Trial to Assess the Efficacy of a Nutritional Supplement in Female Androgenic Alopecia

Introduction. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common form of hair loss in women, is characterized by progressive hair thinning and loss of terminal hairs over frontal and parietal regions of the scalp. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the nutritional supplement Pilopeptan® WOMAN 5αR (PPT5α) composed of specific plant extracts, vitamins, and minerals in women with initial to moderate AGA. Methods. This was a prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial study. Forty‐seven women (aged 25–59 years) with AGA grade I/II were randomized to daily receive PPT5α (n = 24) or placebo (n = 23), and the treatment safety, as well as the percentages of terminal hair in frontal and parietal areas from trichoscopic images, was assessed at 0, 3, and 6 months. Secondary outcomes included self‐assessed hair parameters and overall treatment satisfaction. Results. A total of 44 women completed the study. At 6 months, patients who received the nutritional supplement showed high percentages of terminal hair both in the frontal (77.6% vs 69.8%, p = 0.02) and parietal (77% vs 64.3%, p = 0.02) areas compared to the placebo group. Self‐assessed evaluation of hair parameters showed an improvement in the reduction of hair loss and hair thickness both at the 3‐month (p = 0.004 and p = 0.012) and 6‐month (p = 0.009 and p = 0.004) visits. At the 3 month visit, the intervention group also showed higher treatment satisfaction (p = 0.01). No significant adverse events were reported. Conclusion. These results evidence that the nutritional supplement PPT5α may be beneficial in preventing progression or even improving the condition of AGA in the early stages.

Machine Learning Guided Discovery of Superoxide Dismutase Nanozymes for Androgenetic Alopecia.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hair loss, which is mainly caused by oxidative stress induced dysregulation of hair follicles (HF). Herein, a highly efficient manganese thiophosphite (MnPS3) based superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimic was discovered using machine learning (ML) tools. Remarkably, the IC50 of MnPS3 is 3.61 μg·mL-1, up to 12-fold lower than most reported SOD-like nanozymes. Moreover, a MnPS3 microneedle patch (MnMNP) was constructed to treat AGA that could diffuse into the deep skin where HFs exist and remove excess reactive oxygen species. Compared with the widely used minoxidil, MnMNP exhibits higher ability on hair regeneration, even at a reduced frequency of application. This study not only provides a general guideline for the accelerated discovery of SOD-like nanozymes by ML techniques, but also shows a great potential as a next generation approach for rational design of nanozymes.

Comorbidities in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Comprehensive Review.

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss, affecting 85% of men and 40% of women. Androgenetic alopecia is a disease caused by multiple factors, such as genetics, hormones, and systemic diseases; however, the exact cause remains undetermined. Recent studies have found that it is associated with a high incidence of endocrine diseases and other comorbidities. It may not only be a skin disease but also an early signal of underlying systemic diseases. Effective management requires timely diagnosis and treatment initiation. However, in current clinical practice, androgenetic alopecia is still not fully understood or treated. Recognizing the true physical, social, and emotional burden of androgenic alopecia, as well as its associated comorbidities, is the first step in improving the prognosis of affected patients. This review aimed to gather the known pathological factors and provide a reference for clinical physicians to understand androgenetic alopecia and its comorbidities in depth, thereby enabling early recognition of the underlying systemic diseases and providing timely treatment.