Hair Density Research Articles

A Mouse Model for Conditional Expression of Activated β-Catenin in Epidermal Keratinocytes.

We report the generation and characterization of the K5: CAT bigenic mouse in which the constitutively activated form of β-catenin (ΔN89 β-catenin) is conditionally expressed in cytokeratin-5 (K5) positive epidermal keratinocytes. Following short-term doxycycline intake during the telogen resting phase, the adult K5: CAT bigenic develops enlarged pilosebaceous units that expand deep into the dermis, an expansion usually observed during the anagen growth phase. Prolonged doxycycline treatment results in significant thickening and folding of the K5: CAT epidermis. During this persistent induction period, there is clear evidence of increased keratinocyte proliferation, particularly in the epidermal basal cell layer and the outer root sheath of the hair follicle. This unscheduled increase in cellular proliferation likely explains the decrease in hair density observed in the K5: CAT mouse following persistent doxycycline intake. Numerous hyperplastic endometrioid cysts, which display cornification toward their lumens, are also observed during this treatment period. Remarkably, de-induction of ΔN89 β-catenin expression through doxycycline withdrawal results in a marked reversal of the skin phenotype, suggesting that these morphological changes are dependent on continued signaling by β-catenin and/or its downstream molecular mediators. Joining a small group of mouse models for conditional β-catenin signaling, our K5: CAT mouse model will be particularly useful in identifying those molecular mediators of β-catenin that are responsible for initiating and maintaining these phenotypic responses in the K5: CAT skin. Such studies are predicted to shed more light on β-catenin signaling in epidermal epithelial morphogenesis, hair follicle cycling, and hair growth pathologies.

Effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma in treating female hair loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Hair loss profoundly affects women's physical appearance and psychological health. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has gained attention as a potential treatment for female hair loss. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PRP in treating different forms of female hair loss. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov from January 2000 to May 2024. The focus was on randomized controlled trials investigating PRP treatment for various types of hair loss in women. The research protocol is registered with International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42024556190). The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB 2). A total of 21 studies comprising 628 participants were included in the analysis. PRP treatment was found to significantly enhance hair density and thickness. Additionally, there was a significant reduction in the number of hairs pulled in the PRP group. Adverse effects were generally mild and transient, with no notable difference in pain or discomfort between the PRP and control groups (risk ratio: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.87-1.18). PRP therapy effectively enhances hair density and thickness in women with hair loss, with a favorable safety profile. However, the effects of PRP on hair density and thickness vary with dosage, injection duration, and ethnicity, indicating the need for tailored treatment protocols.

RAPID: A rabbit pregnancy diagnosis device based on matrix optical sensing

Effective early pregnancy diagnosis is crucial for commercial rabbit breeding. Early pregnancy diagnosis enables the implementation of staged feeding for pregnant does, effectively preventing excessive weight gain and reducing the high mortality rates of kits during the birthing stage. This not only enhances production efficiency but also ensures the health and well-being of the breeding rabbits. The study introduces a method and device, the Rabbit Pregnancy Identification Device (RAPID), for detecting rabbit pregnancies using matrix optical sensing. RAPID comprises eight sensor modules and a central host unit. Each sensor module is equipped with three LEDs emitting light at wavelengths of 660 nm, 850 nm, and 940 nm, along with two photodiodes for data collection. A mobile application was developed to enable flexible control of the device. Signal-to-noise ratio tests were conducted to evaluate the stability of data collection by the device across varying light intensities. The experimental results reveal a direct correlation between light intensity levels and the signal-to-noise ratio of collected data. Notably, under a light intensity level of 4, RAPID achieves a signal-to-noise ratio ranging from 42 to 45 dB, satisfying the necessary criteria for data collection. Different classification models were trained using sample data from 216 does across various batches, and their generalization capabilities were evaluated. The experimental findings indicate that the optimal time for RAPID to diagnose the pregnancy status of does is on the 14th day after insemination, achieving an accuracy of 86.63 % and a recall of 80.49 %. Moreover, the model exhibits a degree of generalization, achieving an accuracy of 78.36 % when classifying another batch of sample data. RAPID achieves an accuracy of 97.25 % for pregnancy diagnosis of older does, which is 7.44 % higher than that of younger does; the accuracy rate for pregnancy diagnosis of does with sparse hair is 86.92 %, which is 4.78 % higher than that of does with dense hair. By comparing the effectiveness of using data from 8 sensor modules and data from a single sensor module for pregnancy diagnosis of different batches of does, it was found that the former exhibits more stable generalization capability in doe pregnancy detection.

Oral Supplementation with l-Cystine, Serenoa repens, Cucurbita pepo, and Pygeum africanum in Chronic Telogen Effluvium and Androgenetic Alopecia: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Study

Plain Language SummaryChronic telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia are two common types of hair loss that can have a significant impact on individuals’ quality of life. Research suggests that deficiencies in essential micronutrients may play a role in hair loss. To investigate this further, a study was conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of an oral supplement containing l-Cystine, Serenoa repens, Cucurbita pepo, Pygeum africanum, as well as vitamins and micronutrients, in treating these conditions. The study involved 80 participants aged 18 to 60, both male and female, who were diagnosed with these types of hair loss. They were randomly assigned to take either the oral supplement or a placebo daily for 6 months. Throughout the study period, participants underwent dermatological evaluations, clinical photography, and phototrichograms to monitor changes in their hair. They also completed standardized questionnaires to assess their subjective experience of hair growth and appearance. Results showed that participants who took the oral supplement experienced a significant increase in hair density compared to those who took the placebo, with improvements observed as early as 3 months into the study. Additionally, the overall volume and appearance of their hair showed noticeable enhancement. Importantly, the oral supplement was well-tolerated, with no reports of moderate or severe adverse effects. In conclusion, the findings suggest that this oral supplement could be a safe and effective treatment option for individuals with chronic telogen effluvium or androgenetic alopecia, offering improvements in hair density and overall appearance.

Biostimulation of humic acids on Lepidium sativum L. regulated by their content of stable phenolic O⋅ radicals

BackgroundHumic acid affects plant growth. Its source and structure may play a central role to its functionality. The relationship between humic acid and plant bioactivity is still unclear. This study investigated the biostimulation effects of two natural humic acids derived from soil (SHA) and lignite (LHA) on Lepidium sativum in comparison to a synthetic humic acid model (HALP) with known structure.ResultsAll humic acids positively affected cress seed germination and root elongation. Greater root hairs density and dry matter, compared to control, were observed using concentration of 5 mg L−1 for HALP, 50 mg L−1 for LHA, and 100 mg L−1 for SHA. The germination index was the largest (698% more effective than control) with 50 mg L−1 of SHA, while it was 528% for LHA, and 493% for HALP at 5 mg L−1. SHA contained the lowest aromatic and phenolic C content, the largest pK2 value of 9.0 (7.7 for LHA and 7.6 for HALP), the least ratio between the aromaticity index and lignin ratio (ARM/LigR) of 0.15 (0.66 for LHA and 129.92 for HALP), and at pH 6.3 the lowest amount of free radicals with a value of 0.567 × 1017 spin g−1 (1.670 × 1017 and 1.780 × 1017 spin g−1 for LHA and HALP, respectively), with the greatest g value of 2.0039 (2.0035 for LHA and 2.0037 for HALP).ConclusionsThe overall chemical structure of humic acids exerted a biostimulation of cress plantlets. The level of the intrinsic stable free radicals identified by EPR in the humic acids resulted well correlated to the ARM/LigR ratio calculated by NMR. Our results suggested that HA biostimulation effect is related to its applied concentration, which is limited by its free radical content. The modulation of the humic supramolecular structure by ROS and organic acids in root exudates can determine the release of bioactive humic molecules. When the content of the intrinsic humic free radicals is high, possible molecular coupling of the bioactive humic molecules may hinder their biostimulation activity. In such cases, a low humic acid concentration appears to be required to achieve the optimum biostimulation effects.Graphical

Adaptive integumentary features of beef cattle raised on afforested or non-shaded tropical pastures

We aimed to analyze the seasonal acclimatization process of Nelore and Canchim cattle raised on two production systems (non-shaded, NS, and integrated crop-livestock-forest, ICLF), based on the dynamics of the morphological and functional attributes of the hair coat and skin during winter and summer. The study was conducted in Brazil, in a low-altitude tropical climate region. A completely randomized 2 × 2 factorial design was adopted as follows: two production systems (NS and ICLF), two breeds (Nelore and Canchim) in a longitudinal structure, with measurements repeated over time through two stations (winter and summer). The experimental animals consisted of 32 Nelore (Bos indicus) and 32 Canchim (5/8 Bos taurus × 3/8 Bos indicus) bulls. The animals were equally distributed between two intensive rotational grazing systems. In both breeds, the hair coat was significantly thicker in winter but longer in summer, which increased epidermal protection. The Nelore bulls had shorter, wider, and thicker hairs, which are attributes that promote heat loss via conduction. The Canchim bulls showed significantly lower hair density and higher epithelium distance to sweat glands, which resulted in higher core temperature and respiratory rate. In turn, Nelore bulls had higher serum concentrations of triiodothyronine and lower serum concentrations of cortisol. However, Canchim bulls more frequently and intensely activated their thermoregulatory system and markedly adjusted their hair coat and hair features to reduce heat gain, especially in summer. Therefore, the anatomical plasticity and functional integumentary characteristics of Nelore and Canchim bulls reflect their acclimatization to tropical conditions.

Optimized Depilation Method and Comparative Analysis of Hair Growth Cycle in Mouse Strains.

In mice, hair growth follows a mosaic or wavy patterning. Therefore, synchronization of the hair growth cycle is required to adequately evaluate any trichogenic interventions pre-clinically. Depilation is the established method for synchronizing the growth phase of mouse hair follicles. When attempting to reproduce procedures reported in the literature, C57BL/6J mice developed severe wounds. This led us not only to optimize the procedure, but also to test the procedure in other strains, namely Sv129 and the F1 generation from C57BL/6J crossed with Sv129 (B6129F1 mixed background), for which the hair growth cycle has not been ascertained yet. Here, we describe an optimized depilation procedure, using cold wax and an extra step to protect the animal skin that minimizes injury, improving experimental conditions and animal welfare in all strains. Moreover, our results show that, although hair cycle kinetics are similar in all the analyzed strains, Sv129 and B6129F1 skins are morphologically different from C57BL/6J skin, presenting an increased number and size of hair follicles in anagen, consistent to the higher hair density observed macroscopically. Altogether, the results disclose an optimized mouse depilation method that excludes the detrimental and confounding effects of skin injury in hair growth studies and reveals the hair cycle features of other mouse strains, supporting their use in hair growth pre-clinical studies.

Is autologous platelet-rich plasma capable of increasing hair density in patients with androgenic alopecia? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

FundamentalsPlatelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been progressively more used in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). ObjectivesThe authors aimed to evaluate PRP efficacy compared to placebo in AGA. MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted across seven databases, until 01/04/2023. Randomized clinical trials focusing on AGA and PRP use to increase hair density were included. Patients aged between 15 and 63 years, diagnosed with AGA characterized by Norwood I‒VII and Ludwig I‒III scales, were included. Studies with a sample size <10, lacking PRP processing method, focusing on complementary therapies or other alopecias, were excluded. The authors conducted subgroup analysis for activator, spin method, study design, risk of bias, and gender. Meta-regression was conducted for activator, spin method, design, and gender. The authors used GRADEpro to assess evidence certainty and the RoB-2 tool for risk of bias. Asymmetry was measured through a Funnel plot followed by Egger’s test. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42023407334). ResultsThe authors screened 555 registers and included fourteen studies involving 431 patients for qualitative synthesis, with 13 studies included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis demonstrated a mean difference of 27.55 hairs/cm2 and 95% CI (14.04; 41.06), I2 = 95.99%, p < 0.05. Hair diameter meta-analysis presented a mean difference of 2.02 μm, 95% CI (−0.85 μm; 4.88 μm), and I2 = 77.11% (p = 0.02). That is, low quality evidence. Study limitationsStudies were highly heterogeneous, of low quality, and presented evident publication bias. ConclusionsHighly heterogeneous studies with publication bias suggest PRP effectively increases hair density in AGA, so further high-quality randomized clinical trials are recommended to strengthen the evidence.

Anatomical Structure of Some Dying Plants of the Lesser Caucasus

The article provides information about the morpho-anatomical and coloring properties of some plants of the Lesser Caucasus, common in the territory of Azerbaijan. The distribution zones of species are indicated, anatomical studies are carried out, and both permanent and diagnostic structural indicators of taxa are determined. It was found that plants in the mountain zone develop characteristic features: thickening of the leaf blade; strong development of palisade parenchyma; a decrease in the volume of stomata, but an increase in their number; thickening of the membrane and cuticle of epidermal cells, formation of dense hair; reduction and compaction of cells.

Revitalizing skin, hair, nails, and muscles: Unlocking beauty and wellness with vegan collagen.

Collagen, a key protein in the body maintains hair, skin and bone health and its production tends to decrease in synthesis as humans age. The demand for vegan collagen-builder has increased worldwide due to increased adaptability to vegan diet. This clinical study was designed aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of vegan collagen builder (VEGCOL™️) at different dosages (2.5, 5, and 10 g) in adult participants. Total 66 subjects (22 subjects/dose) aged 30 to 50 years were enrolled, and 63 subjects completed the study. Duration of study was 60 days. Evaluations included change in skin elasticity, hydration, crow's feet area wrinkles, fine lines, skin, Glogau skin age, change in pain scale score, muscle strength and subject perception assessment about test treatment use. After 60 days of treatment, there was significant improvement in hair growth rate by 45.01%, 38.54% and 50.37% with p < 0.01 for doses 2.5, 5, and 10 g respectively. Additionally, 19.64% (p < 0.0001) and 20.51% (p < 0.0001) increase in hair density and hair thickness respectively was observed with 10 g dose. 2.5 g dose resulted in 33.03% (p < 0.01) increase in skin smoothness and 49.94% (p < 0.0001) decrease in crow's feet area wrinkles, decreased retraction time by 21.71 milliseconds (p < 0.05). 52.54% reduction in pain score (p < 0.001). No any adverse events were reported. Vegan collagen-builder effectively improved multiple age-related concerns such as wrinkles, fine lines, joint pain, muscle strength and hair growth. All respondents perceived the product as beneficial in improving the aesthetics of the skin, hair, and nails. The findings support the use of vegan collagen-builder as safe and efficacious in promoting healthier skin, stronger muscles, and improved hair and nail conditions.

DEVELOPMENT OF AN EXFOLIATING DERMOCOSMETIC FORMULATION WITH BABASSU FIBERS TO HELP ON THE TREATMENT OF ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA

Androgenetic alopecia is a condition characterized by hair loss associated with exposure to androgens, occurring in genetically predisposed individuals. It causes terminal hair to be replaced by vellus hair, miniaturizing the hair shaft and decreasing hair density. The removal of the stratum corneum of skin due to mechanical exfoliation facilitates the penetration of active ingredients into the scalp by stimulating blood circulation, which can help hair growth. Society's consumption patterns are constantly changing, being the search for sustainability and ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) trends a very popular topic. The aim of this study was to develop an exfoliating dermocosmetic formulation with babassu fibers to help on the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, using the part of the babassu coconut that was originally discarded by the industry. An oil-in-water emulsion was developed with the surfactants lauryl glucoside and cocoamidopropyl betaine, and the emulsifiers cetostearyl alcohol and glyceryl monostearate. The formulation was then analyzed for organoleptic parameters (color, smell and appearance), density, pH and centrifugation. The formulation showed instability in the presence of direct sunlight and heat, indicating possible impasses for its commercialization, since storage in the bathroom may trigger instability. In this way, it can be assumed that storing the product in a refrigerator or even at room temperature (&lt;25°C) will maintain its stability. Based on the results, future studies are needed to assess the stability of the scrub, and the optimization of the formulation will make it possible to obtain an innovative product.

In silico Analysis of Berberine as a Potential Therapeutic Approach for Various Signalling Pathways Linked to Androgenetic Alopecia

Background: Alopecia is defined by a loss of hair density and is often considered a symptom of multiple illnesses, such as infection and inflammation. Objective: The molecular mechanisms underlying the hair-promoting effects include inhibition of 5α-reductase activity, reducing the binding affinity of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to androgen receptors, and decreasing/down-regulating TGF-β2 activity, which have a suggestive role in androgenetic alopecia. Finasteride and minoxidil are the approved non-surgical treatment alternatives for hair loss, but they cause side effects in patients. Therefore, bioactive phytoconstituents with multiple targets can be used to find novel, secure, and efficacious hair-promoting medicinal products. Methods: This study has carried out the in silico evaluation of berberine using various software. To find possible interactions between the 5α-reductase enzyme and Transforming Growth Factor-- beta 2 (TGF-β2), a critical protein involved in the human hair development cycle, computer-aided drug discovery was employed. Results: According to in silico studies, berberine has been found to bind well to the 4K7a and 6M2N binding sites. The drug has been found to adhere to Lipinski's rule of five, and its pharmacokinetic characteristics were noteworthy. Drug-likeness and Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET) properties showed appreciable results. Furthermore, berberine showed docking scores of -8.4 (5α-reductase) and -7.1 (TGF-β2), which were significantly better than minoxidil (-4.8, -3.2). In general, the drug exhibited improved binding interactions, and the possible toxicity investigations provided very little basis for risk prediction. Conclusion: The current protocol has offered experimental support for berberine's possible therapeutic use in reducing male pattern baldness. Therefore, it can be a possible target for the therapy of androgenetic alopecia through the regulation of TGF-β2 and 5α-reductase activity.

Bimatoprost Can Increase Growth and Density of Eyebrow Hair: A Prospective Study on a Group of Young Women

Bimatoprost Can Increase Growth and Density of Eyebrow Hair: A Prospective Study on a Group of Young Women

The Efficacy of Intralesional Pentoxifylline Injection versus the Standard Intralesional Corticosteroid Injection in The Treatment of Alopecia Areata

Abstract Background Alopecia areata is a nonscarring skin disease affecting the scalp or other body parts. The etiology of AA is still controversial and various pathogenic causes are under investigation. Several treatment modalities are used in managing AA. Objective to evaluate the efficacy and safety of (PTX) injection in treatment of localized AA compared to intralesional corticosteroids TRA on 30 patients with multiple patches of AA. Patients and Methods The current study was a prospective intra-patient comparative controlled clinical trial. Patients were recruited form outpatient clinic of Dermatology, Ain Shams University Hospital in the period from November 2019 to May 2020. 30 Egyptian patients (11 males &amp;19 females) with at least three patches were enrolled to the study. The diagnosis of AA patients enrolled in the study based on clinical signs. Results To sum up, both PTX and ILCS has good results in treatment of AA, as each of them has its own advantages. Corticosteroids are rapidly acting while PTX effects are delayed but increased progressively throughout consecutive sessions. So using corticosteroids in combination with PTX can augment each other and give better results. Conclusion Treatment of AA with intralesional PTX exerted significant increase in hair density, total hair count, terminal hair count and percentage of terminal hair which is evident after completion of the sessions. Treatment with ILCS exerted significant increase hair density, total hair count, terminal hair count and percentage of terminal hair after treatment. Comparison of both treatment modalities revealed slight better response with PTX compared to ILCS. In conclusion, the current study revealed that Intralesional combined administration of PTX and TRA can be beneficial for patients suffering from AA. Steroid showed a rapid response that could be maintained by adding PTX.

Effect of a Hair Loss Management Concurrently Incorporating Aroma Scalp Massage on Hair and Scalp Conditions

This study is a similar experimental study aimed at analyzing the effects of a hair loss management program combined with aroma scalp massage on changes in hair and scalp conditions. The study included 8 participants each in the experimental and control groups, aged 20 to 50, who underwent the hair loss management program once a week for 8 weeks. Data collected were analyzed using the SPSS 26.0 program. The results showed that, firstly, both groups did not show significant differences in hair thickness and density based on the timing of management and between-group differences. Secondly, both groups showed significant increases in moisture and oiliness after 4 and 8 weeks, while stratum corneum amount, pore condition, and scalp surface significantly decreased. A significant decrease in stratum corneum amount was observed in the experimental group after 8 weeks. Thirdly, subjective satisfaction evaluations after management revealed significantly higher satisfaction ratings in the experimental group.

An overview of incidence and mechanisms promoting weight gain as an adverse effect of oral minoxidil therapy for androgenetic alopecia

Introduction and aim. Androgenetic alopecia, with a mechanism based on the excessive response of hair follicles to androgens, affects a majority of people at some point in their lives, prompting them to seek therapy. Current treatment options for this condition include oral minoxidil, a medication associated with an adverse effect of fluid retention, potentially resulting in weight gain for certain individuals. In contemporary scientific literature, there aren’t many articles focusing solely on this specific side effect. The objective of this review is to explore links between taking oral minoxidil and fluid retention leading to weight gain in patients with androgenetic alopecia by examining available studies in order to understand the mechanisms behind this phenomenon and the dose dependence of fluid retention. Material and methods. A review of the literature was performed to find connections between oral minoxidil therapy and water retention-induced weight gain. Analysis of the literature. Clinical trials have demonstrated that low dose oral minoxidil therapy, within the range of 0.5 to 5 mg daily, leads to an improvement in both hair count and density. The incidence of side effects such as hypertrichosis, fluid retention, headache, dizziness, and insomnia, is relatively infrequent. Fluid retention rates varied between 0.22% in the Tanaka study and 10% of patients in the Panchaprateep study. The discontinuation of treatment was necessary in some instances, with the highest rate of 2.4% cases in the Jimenez-Cauhe study. A comparative analysis of studies on oral minoxidil use for refractory hypertension, within the range of 10 to 40 mg daily, revealed that nearly all patients required adding a diuretic to control fluid retention. Some patients discontinued the treatment due to the severity of side effects. In instances of minoxidil overdose, serious complications, including generalized edema, myocardial infarction, stroke, and pleural effusion, were observed. Across these studies, all patients recovered following the discontinuation of minoxidil treatment. The underlying mechanism behind oral minoxidil induced sodium and fluid retention, contributing to weight gain, is associated with alterations in the neurohumoral system, increased plasma renin activity, changes in renal hemodynamics with relocation of the blood circulation from outer to inner cortex, and tubular effect that can be connected to minoxidil ability to act as an opener of potassium channels in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle causing greater reabsorption of sodium and chloride. Conclusion. The frequency and severity of water retention promoting weight gain in individuals taking oral minoxidil are dose dependent. In most patients, minoxidil is a safe and effective treatment option for androgenetic alopecia. In some cases, due to rapid weight gain of 5 pounds or more, adding a diuretic or discontinuation may be required. Further research is necessary to better understand the mechanisms and dose dependence of minoxidil induced fluid retention, which promotes weight gain.

A new species of Onosma (Boraginaceae) from Bakhtiari Mountains in Iran

A new species, Onosma bakhtiarica (Boraginaceae), has been discovered in Iran’s Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province. The plant is found in the Tang-e Beheshtabad and belongs to sect. Onosma subsect. Haplotricha. Morphologically, it is closely related to O. pachypoda and O. sericea. Still, it differs from the mentioned species by the rosette leaf shape, shape of rosette leaf apex, shorter cauline leaf, cauline leaf width and shape, arrangement of setae, corolla color and shape, shorter pedicel length in flowering and fruiting, shorter fruiting calyx, bract shape, nutlet shape and size, nutlet ornamentation, and a hairy annulus. In addition, O. bakhtiarica is distinguished from O. pachypoda by its light brown nutlet, rosette leaf with a long petiole, and cauline leaf with an acute apex. It can also be distinguished from O. sericea by the dense short hairs covering the corolla’s exterior. Diagnostic characters, a comprehensive description, photographs, and a distribution map are provided. An identification key for haplotrichous Onosma species of Iran is also provided.

A Study on Optimal Frequency and Duration of PRP in Androgenic Alopecia

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as a promising treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AA), addressing the need for effective hair restoration with minimal invasiveness. However, questions remain regarding the optimal frequency and duration of PRP treatment. Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of PRP therapy on hair density and diameter in AGA patients, considering variations in treatment response across different AGA grades and alopecia durations. Method: A 6-month open-labeled pilot study was conducted on 30 male participants with AGA Grades III-VII. PRP was administered every 15 days for six sessions, and hair parameters were evaluated using trichoscan. Results: The study demonstrated a significant increase in both hair diameter and density over six months of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Initially, the mean hair diameter was 0.055 mm, rising to 0.075 mm by the study's end, with a substantial increase of 0.021 mm at six months, equating to a 39.85% improvement. Similarly, hair density increased notably from 6.13 to 8.43 hairs per 10 mm², with the most significant rise at the six-month mark, showing a mean increase of 2.3 hairs per 10 mm², reflecting a 39.73% enhancement. All AGA grades experienced increased hair diameter and density, with Grade 5 showing the highest diameter increase (0.03 mm), and Grade 4A exhibiting the highest density increase (3.0 hairs per 10 mm²). Statistical analysis confirmed significant improvements across all grades (p = 0.0446 for diameter; p = 0.0196 for density). Additionally, patients with alopecia durations up to five years experienced the highest improvements in both diameter (0.026 mm) and density (2.68 hairs per 10 mm²), while longer durations showed lower enhancements (p = 0.0485 for diameter; p = 0.0096 for density). Conclusion: PRP therapy demonstrated efficacy across all AGA grades and durations, suggesting its potential as a promising treatment option for AGA. Further research is needed to validate these findings and establish PRP therapy as a standard AGA treatment.

Hair transplantation versus scalp micropigmentation: A retrospective study of treatment selection in persons with female pattern hair loss.

Hair transplant (HT) is the standard treatment for female pattern hair loss (FPHL), but scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is an alternative. Currently, there are no criteria to help choose between HT and SMP. Forty female patients with FPHL who had successfully undergone HT and SMP, were reviewed to identify factors that might help decide between treatments. Hair density (HD) and hair caliber were measured at the part line and mid-occipital region by a Folliscope. The sensitivity and specificity of HT and SMP were determined by area under the curve (AUC) and receiver operating characteristic curve. Patients were divided into HT (n = 23) and SMP (n = 17) groups. The follicular unit density (FUD) (HT: 62.06 ± 4.8551/cm2; SMP: 66.59 ± 3.4971/cm2) and HD (HT: 96.16 ± 16.6954/cm2; SMP: 116.08 ± 17.0520/cm2) were significantly different (p < 0.01) between groups. The AUC for FUD was 77.6% with a cutoff value of 66.83 and 87.0% (1-0.412) sensitivity. The AUC for HD was 82.4% with a cutoff value of 96.17 and 69.6% (1-0.118) sensitivity. HD was the most important factor when deciding between HT surgery and SMP. SMP is recommended when the HD is ≥104.6 hairs/cm2 and HT surgery is strongly recommended when the HD is ≤96.17 hairs/cm2.

Hair Thickness Growth Effect of Adenosine Complex in Male-/Female-Patterned Hair Loss via Inhibition of Androgen Receptor Signaling.

Aging (senescence) is an unavoidable biological process that results in visible manifestations in all cutaneous tissues, including scalp skin and hair follicles. Previously, we evaluated the molecular function of adenosine in promoting alopecia treatment in vitro. To elucidate the differences in the molecular mechanisms between minoxidil (MNX) and adenosine, gene expression changes in dermal papilla cells were examined. The androgen receptor (AR) pathway was identified as a candidate target of adenosine for hair growth, and the anti-androgenic activity of adenosine was examined in vitro. In addition, ex vivo examination of human hair follicle organ cultures revealed that adenosine potently elongated the anagen stage. According to the severity of alopecia, the ratio of the two peaks (terminal hair area/vellus hair area) decreased continuously. We further investigated the adenosine hair growth promoting effect in vivo to examine the hair thickness growth effects of topical 5% MNX and the adenosine complex (0.75% adenosine, 1% penthenol, and 2% niacinamide; APN) in vivo. After 4 months of administration, both the MNX and APN group showed significant increases in hair density (MNX + 5.01% (p < 0.01), APN + 6.20% (p < 0.001)) and thickness (MNX + 5.14% (p < 0.001), APN + 10.32% (p < 0.001)). The inhibition of AR signaling via adenosine could have contributed to hair thickness growth. We suggest that the anti-androgenic effect of adenosine, along with the evaluation of hair thickness distribution, could help us to understand hair physiology and to investigate new approaches for drug development.