Minoxidil Research Articles

Minoxidil cyclodextrin complexes and their inclusion in transfersomes for the enhancement of therapeutic effect on androgenic alopecia

To further increase the drug loading (DL) of minoxidil (MXD) in transfersomes and fully utilize its role in the treatment of androgen alopecia (AGA), a strategy of drug in-cyclodextrin (CD)-in transfersomes was adopted and investigated. The sulfobutyl-substituted β-CDs (SBE-β-CD) with highest optimal binding energy was selected as the most suitable CD for MXD through molecular docking, which had high solubilization effect on MXD verified by phase solubility study. The transfersomes bearing inclusion complexes of MXD/SBE-β-CD was prepared by thin film hydration method, and the MXD/SBE-β-CD transfersomes (MXD/SCD@TFs) with the mass ratio of 10: 3: 2.5: 6 for phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, Tween80 and MXD was selected as the optimal prescription through single factor screening, which had particle size of less than 100 nm, zeta potential of (−36.4 ± 0.11) mV. The DL of MXD/SCD@TFs was (44.02 ± 0.16)% (n = 3), which was increased nearly 3 times of MXD@TFs, resulting higher stability, in vitro skin permeation activity and drug skin retention. Importantly, the length of newborn hair and the length and number of hair follicles after 21 days of administration of MXD/SCD@TFs on AGA model C57BL/6 mice were significantly higher than those of MXD@TFs and commercial tincture (p < 0.01). Obviously, improving DL is an effective means to improve the therapeutic effect of MXD transfersoms on AGA, the screening of suitable CD for MXD and the loading of inclusion complex in transfersomes provide promising strategy to achieve it.

Cellulose nanocrystal-stabilized Pickering emulsion gels as vehicles for follicular delivery of minoxidil

Minoxidil (MXD) is the only topical over-the-counter medicine approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. For the purpose of targeting the delivery of MXD to dermal papilla in the hair follicle, MXD Pickering emulsion gels were fabricated based on the designability of deep eutectic solvent (DES) and the versatility of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na). Structural studies and theoretical calculations results suggest that CNC can stabilize the interface between the MXD-DES and water, leading to the formation of Pickering emulsions. The rheological properties and stabilities of MXD Pickering emulsions were enhanced through gelation using CMC-Na, which highlights the good compatibility and effectiveness of natural polysaccharides in emulsion gels. Due to the particle size of emulsion droplets (679 nm) and the rheological properties of emulsion gel, the fabricated MXD formulations show in vivo hair regrowth promotion and hair follicle targeting capabilities. Interestingly, the MXD Pickering emulsion-based formulations exert therapeutic effects by upregulating the expression of hair growth factors. The proposed nanodrug strategy based on supramolecular strategies of CNC and CMC-Na provides an interesting avenue for androgenetic alopecia treatment.

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.

Trilayer dissolving microneedle for transdermal delivery of minoxidil: a proof-of-concept study

Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by bald patches in certain areas of the body, especially the scalp. Minoxidil (MNX), as a first-line treatment of AA, effectively induces hair growth. However, oral and topical administration pose problems, including low bioavailability, risk of uncontrolled hair growth, and local side effects such as burning hair loss, and scalp irritation. In the latest research, MNX was delivered to the skin via microneedle (MN) transdermally. The MNX concentration was distributed throughout the needle so that drug penetration was reduced and had the potential to irritate. In this study, we formulated MNX into three-layer dissolving microneedles (TDMN) to increase drug penetration and avoid irritation. Physicochemical evaluation, parafilm, was used to evaluate the mechanical strength of TDMN and showed that TDMN could penetrate the stratum corneum. The ex-vivo permeation test showed that the highest average permeation result was obtained for TDMN2, namely 165.28 ± 31.87 ug/cm2, while for Minoxidil cream it was 46.03 ± 8.5 ug/cm2. The results of ex vivo and in vivo dermatokinetic tests showed that the amount of drug concentration remaining in the skin from the TDMN2 formula was higher compared to the cream preparation. The formula developed has no potential for irritation and toxicity based on the HET-CAM test and hemolysis test. TDMN is a promising alternative to administering MNX to overcome MNX problems and increase the effectiveness of AA therapy.

Synergistic therapeutic effect of ginsenoside Rg3 modified minoxidil transfersomes (MXD-Rg3@TFs) on androgenic alopecia in C57BL/6 mice

Inflammation in hair follicles will reduce the effectiveness of minoxidil (MXD) in the treatment of androgen alopecia (AGA) caused by elevated androgen levels. To target multiple physiological and pathological processes in AGA, a novel natural bioactive compound modified transfersomes (MXD-Rg3@TFs) was prepared to replace cholesterol that may disrupt hair growth, with ginsenosides Rg3 (Rg3) that have anti-inflammatory effects on AGA. The effects of MXD, Rg3 and their combination on AGA were evaluated using dihydrotestosterone (DHT) induced human dermal papilla cells (DPCs), and the results showed that the combination of MXD and Rg3 can significantly promote the proliferation, reduce the level of intracellular ROS and inflammatory factors, and inhibit the aging of DHT induced DPCs. Compared with cholesterol membrane transfersomes (MXD-Ch@TFs), MXD-Rg3@TFs has similar deformability, smaller particle size and better stability. MXD-Rg3@TFs has also significant advantages in shortening telogen phase and prolonging the growth period of hair follicles in C57BL/6 mice than MXD-Ch@TFs and commercial MXD tincture. The prominent ability of MXD-Rg3@TFs to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to DHT and reduce the level of inflammatory factors suggested that Rg3 and MXD in MXD-Rg3@TFs have synergistic effect on AGA therapy. MXD-Ch@TFs with no irritation to C57BL/6 mice skin is expected to reduce the dose of MXD and shorten the treatment time, which would undoubtedly provide a promising therapeutic option for treatment of AGA.

Minoxidil/salicylic acid hydrogel formulated for alopecia treatment: Supramolecular interactions modulate physicochemical properties and biological activities revealed by experimental and theoretical studies

Although alopecia does not cause apparent physical discomfort, it can significantly affect the quality of life and mental health of patients. In order to develop a new strategy for alopecia treatment, a supramolecular hydrogel formulation was prepared based on the carbomer matrix and drug salt of minoxidil (MXD) and salicylic acid (SA). The MXD/SA crystalline solid was characterized using X-ray crystallography and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The prepared MXD/SA supramolecular hydrogel was studied by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis, rheological assay, in vitro diffusion and penetration, scanning electron microscope, and molecular dynamics simulations. The experimental and theoretical results reveal that supramolecular interactions can alter the porous network of hydrogels, leading to enhanced thermal stability, transdermal diffusion, and temperature-responsive skin adhesion. Furthermore, the results of in vivo hair growth model and histological analysis indicate that the MXD/SA hydrogel not only accelerates hair growth but also improves hair follicle regeneration ability. Therefore, the MXD/SA hydrogel has the potential for the efficient treatment of alopecia, providing an important pathway to arrange the formulations that can utilize the supramolecular interactions for improved therapeutic efficacy.

Nanocrystal Structure of Minoxidil: A Safe Stimulator for Hair Growth Factor for C57BL/6 Mice.

Commercial Minoxidil (MXD) is commonly used as a vasodilator agent of hair follicles for providing direct dermal papilla cell proliferation and consequently enhancing the rate of hair growth. The current study attempted to improve the bioactivity and water solubility of MXD by producing nanocrystal structures and investigating the obtained hair growthstimulating activity on C57BL/6 mice. The MXD nanoparticles (MXD-NPs) were prepared through a bead mill and ultrasonic process and characterized by DLS, XRD, UV-Vis, FTIR, FESEM, TEM, and Zeta-potential techniques. The cytotoxicity of MXD-NPs was studied on human dermal fibroblast (HDF) by MTT assay. Lastly, we analyzed the comparative hair growth inductive activity of certain MXD-NPs concentrations on C57BL/6 mice. The stabled MXD-NPs (-46 mV, 21.9 nm) caused a significant increase in the hair growth rate of C57BL/6 mice by running a safe site-specific delivery mechanism on the targeted pilosebaceous follicles when compared to MXD. The MXD-NPs-receiving mice exhibited a greater rate of anagen/telogen follicular when compared with MXD-treated types, which verified the improvement of their hair re-growing and follicular-stimulative activities. Therefore, these outcomes confirmed the potential of MXD-NPs for substituting its commercial solution format as a safe and efficient iso-formulation structure.

Incorporating surfactants into PCL microneedles for sustained release of a hydrophilic model drug

Polymeric microneedles (MNs) are widely used for sustained drug release due to their distinct advantages over other types of MNs. Poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) stands out as a biodegradable and biocompatible hydrophobic polymer commonly employed in drug delivery applications. This study explores the impact of surfactants on the encapsulation and release rate of a model hydrophilic drug, minoxidil (MXD), from PCL MNs. Three nonionic surfactants, Tween 80, Span 60, and polyethylene glycol (PEG), were integrated into PCL MNs at varying concentrations. Compared to the other types of surfactants, PEG-containing PCL MNs exhibit enhanced insertion capabilities into a skin-simulant parafilm model and increased mechanical strength, suggesting facile penetration into the stratum corneum. Furthermore, MXD-PEG MNs show the highest encapsulation efficiency and are further characterized using FTIR, DSC and XRD. Their mechanical strength against different static forces was measured. The MNs exhibit a sustained release pattern over 20 days. Eventually, MXD-PEG MNs were subjected to penetration testing using chicken skin and required minimal insertion forces with no observed MN failure during experimentation even after compression with the maximum force applied (32 N per patch). Taken together, the present work demonstrates the feasibility of incorporating nonionic surfactants like PEG into the tips of hydrophobic PCL MNs for sustained delivery of a model hydrophilic drug. This formulation strategy can be used to improve patient compliance by allowing self-administration and achieving prolonged drug release.

Cost-effective lab-made graphite- and aluminum oxide-integrated polylactic acid composite electrodes for electrochemical sensing of minoxidil

The development of new sensors, which are low-cost, portable, and disposable, is currently highly required. In this sense, this work describes a simple way for lab-made fabrication of new composite electrodes exploiting an environmental friendly matrix based on thermoplastic polylactic acid (PLA). Great conductive features were achieved using graphite and aluminum oxide in PLA. The amount of aluminum oxide has been carefully optimized (0 to 12.25 % m/m). The manufacturing process presented reproducibility (between-device % relative standard deviation (RSD) < 7.3). Additionally, the electrode was characterized by electrochemical, spectroscopy, and morphological techniques. Improved cyclic voltammetric responses regarding Ipa, Ipc, and ΔEp were obtained towards the detection of the redox probes [Fe(CN)6]3-/4- and dopamine using the electrode incorporated with aluminum oxide. Moreover, electrochemical impedance measurements revealed a more facilitated charge transfer process in the alumina-loaded electrode (Rct = 2070 Ω) than without alumina (Rct = 2810 Ω). The developed sensor was associated with batch injection analysis for the simple, fast, and sensitive amperometric monitoring of minoxidil (MXD) in pharmaceuticals, achieving a greater sensitivity with a detection limit of 2.9 µmol/L. A wide linear behavior from 10 to 1000 µmol/L and a between-measurement % RSD of less than 6 were acquired. Also, the method is free of interference from compounds commonly used as excipients in pharmaceutical products. When applied to the pharmaceutical sample, results statistically comparable to the reference method (UV–Vis spectrometry) were achieved, which confirmed the method's accuracy. Thus, the proposed sensor proves to be a powerful alternative tool for MXD monitoring, providing comparable and even better results with other high-cost electrochemical sensors.

Application of validated UV spectrophotometric and colorimetric method to quantify minoxidil in the development of trilayer dissolving microneedle: Proof of concept in ex vivo and in vivo studies in rats

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune-induced hair loss condition, by utilizing MNX, a hair growth-promoting compound. However, minoxidil (MNX) administration's efficacy is hindered by low bioavailability and adverse effects. To enhance its delivery, Trilayer Dissolving Microneedles (TDMN) are introduced, enabling controlled drug release. The study's primary was to establish a validated UV-Vis Spectrophotometer method for Minoxidil analysis in rat skin affected by alopecia areata. This method adheres to International Conference Harmonization (ICH) and FDA guidelines, encompassing accuracy, precision, linearity, quantification limit (QL), and detection limit (DL). The validation method was conducted through two approaches, namely UV region validation using PBS and the colorimetric method in the visible region (Vis). The validated approach is then employed for assessing in vitro release, ex vivo permeation, and in vivo pharmacokinetics. Results indicate superior MNX extraction recovery using methanol compared to acetonitrile. Method C (5mL methanol) is optimal, offering high recovery with minimal solvent usage. Precision assessments demonstrate %RSD values within MNX guidelines (≤15%), affirming accuracy and reproducibility. UV-Vis spectroscopy quantifies MNX integration into TDMN, using PVA-PVP, with concentrations aligning with ICH standards (95% to 105%). In conclusion, TDMN holds promise for enhancing MNX delivery, mitigating bioavailability and side effect challenges. The validated UV-Vis Spectrophotometer method effectively analyzes MNX in skin tissues, providing insights into AA treatment and establishing a robust analytical foundation for future studies.

Development and Characterization of Thiolated Cyclodextrin-Based Nanoparticles for Topical Delivery of Minoxidil.

The aim of this research was to prepare adhesive nanoparticles for the topical application of Minoxidil (MXD). Thiolated β-CDs were prepared via conjugation of cysteamine with oxidized CDs. MXD was encapsulated within thiolated and unmodified β-CDs. Ionic gelation method was used to prepare nanoparticles (Thio-NP and blank NP) of CDs with chitosan. Nanoparticles were analyzed for size and zetapotential. Inclusion complexes were characterized via FTIR. Drug dissolution studies were carried out. An in vitro adhesion study over human hair was performed. An in vivo skin irritation study was performed. Ex vivo drug uptake was evaluated by using a Franz diffusion cell. Thiolated β-CDs presented 1804.68 ± 25 μmol/g thiol groups and 902.34 ± 25 μmol/g disulfide bonds. Nanoparticles displayed particle sizes within a range of 231 ± 07 nm to 354 ± 13 nm. The zeta potential was in the range of -8.1 ± 02 mV, +16.0 ± 05 mV. FTIR analyses confirmed no interaction between the excipients and drug. Delayed drug release was observed from Thio-NP. Thio-NP retained over hair surfaces for a significantly longer time. Similarly, drug retention was significantly improved. Thio-NP displayed no irritation over rabbit skin. Owing to the above results, nanoparticles developed with MXD-loaded thiolated β-CDs might be a potential drug delivery system for topical scalp diseases.

Co-delivery of minoxidil and tocopherol acetate ethosomes to reshape the hair Follicular Microenvironment and promote hair regeneration in androgenetic alopecia

The most prevalent kind of hair loss is androgenic alopecia (AGA), which is characterized by hair follicle miniaturization and microenvironment dysfunction. Although topical Minoxidil (MXD) was considered to be a safe and effective treatment for AGA, excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lower sulfotransferase activity in the hair follicular microenvironment led to an unsatisfactory treatment of AGA. Here, we developed the ethosome (MTE) load of minoxidil and tocopherol acetate to improve the therapeutic effect of MXD on androgenic alopecia. It could regulate the microenvironment around hair follicles, promote the telogen-to-anagen transition of hair follicles, and boost hair regeneration, thus achieving a synergistic effect of 1 + 1 > 2. The results proved that MTE showed excellent stability, biosafety, and good dermal and follicular permeability in vitro. The hair regeneration ability of AGA model mice showed that the co-delivery ethosome might regulate the microenvironment around the hair follicles and improve hair regeneration in comparison to the commercial minoxidil tincture alone. As a result, the strategy provided a promising new strategy for the treatment of AGA.

Fabrication of carboxymethyl cellulose/hyaluronic acid/polyvinylpyrrolidone composite pastes incorporation of minoxidil-loaded ferulic acid-derived lignin nanoparticles and valproic acid for treatment of androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a transracial and cross-gender disease worldwide with a higher prevalence among young individuals. Traditional oral or subcutaneous injections are often used to treat AGA, however, they may cause severe side-effects and therefore effective treatments for AGA are currently lacking. In this work, to treat AGA, we developed a composite paste system based on minoxidil (MXD)-loaded nanoparticles and valproic acid (VPA) with the assistance of roller-microneedles (roller-MNs). The matrix of composite paste systems is carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hyaluronic acid (HA) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The roller-MNs can create microchannels in the skin to enhance drug transdermal efficiency. With the combined effects of the stimulation hair follicle (HF) regrowth by upregulating Wnt/beta-catenin of VPA and the mechanical microchannels induced by roller-MNs, the as-prepared composite paste systems successfully boost perifollicular vascularization, and activate hair follicle stem cells, thereby inducing notably faster hair regeneration at a lower administration frequency on AGA mouse model compared with minoxidil. This approach offers several benefits, including the avoidance of efficacy loss due to the liver's first-pass effect associated with oral drug, reduction in the risk of infection from subcutaneous injection, and significant decrease in the side effects of lower-dose MXD.

Combining rapid degrading microneedles with Slow-Released drug delivery system for the treatment of alopecia areata

Patients suffering from alopecia areata often have limited therapeutic options for anti-hair loss. Compared with hair transplant and oral finasteride, therapy with fewer side effects for alopecia areata has been explored. Herein, a facile minoxidil (MNX) loaded porous UiO-66 microneedle (MN) patch enabling realize rapid-release of UiO-66 and slow-release of MNX simultaneously is reported. The MN patch is composed of polylactic acid (PLA) substrate and hyaluronic acid (HA) MN arrays. Once being inserted under the skin, HA-MN arrays would dissolve rapidly and MNX-loaded UiO-66 releases concurrently in a short time, followed by MNX releasing from UiO-66 continuously under the skin. The therapeutic schedule could reduce the use time and frequency of MN patches effectively to lower the negative effects brought to the patients by the treatment, such as risk of bacterial infection and aesthetic degree of wearing. UiO-66 loaded MN patches present antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) to avoid bacterial infection during use. PLA substrate provides enough mechanical property to remove the patches entirely after using. After the fabricated MNX-loaded PLA/HA-MNs being inserted, the patches induced the high level of IκBα and low level of p-P65 in the topical treatment via mice model, thus inhibiting the phosphorylation of NF-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. Collectively, this smart drug slow-release system promotes the safety and effectiveness of treatment for alopecia areata, thus exhibiting potential applications for hair loss.

Dissolving Microneedle Patch Integrated with Microspheres for Long-Acting Hair Regrowth Therapy

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of progressive hair loss in both men and women that severely reduces life quality and affects patients' self-esteem. Due to the shortcomings of traditional therapeutic formulations (e.g., topical minoxidil and oral finasteride), such as low bioavailability, frequent dosing, and significant side effects, there is an urgent need to develop a safe and effective strategy for AGA treatment. Here, we report a water-soluble microneedle (MN) patch integrated with biodegradable minoxidil (MXD)-loaded microspheres for long-acting AGA treatment with reduced administration frequency and improved patient compliance. When the patch pierces the skin, the MNs rapidly dissolve and deliver MXD-encapsulated polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) microspheres into the skin, which, subsequently act as drug reservoirs for the sustained release of the therapeutics for over 2 weeks. Additionally, the application of the MN patch provided a mechanical stimulation on mouse skin, which was also helpful for hair regrowth. Compared with the topical MXD solutions that have been commercialized on the market and require daily application, the long-acting MN patch contains a much lower drug amount and shows a similar or superior hair regeneration effect in AGA mice while only requiring monthly or weekly administration. These encouraging results suggest a simple, safe, and effective strategy for long-acting hair regeneration in clinics.

Panax notoginseng saponins promote hair follicle growth in mice via Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway.

Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS), the active ingredients of the traditional Chinese medicine Panax notoginseng, have strong neuroprotective and anti-platelet aggregation effects. To investigate whether PNS can promote hair follicle growth in C57BL/6J mice, the optimal concentration of PNS was initially determined, followed by clarification of the mechanism underlying their effects. Twenty-five male C57BL/6J mice had the hair on a 2 × 3cm2 area of the dorsal skin shaved and were equally divided into five groups: control group, 5% minoxidil (MXD) group, and three PNS treatment groups [2% (10mg/kg), 4% (20 mg/kg), and 8% (40 mg/kg) PNS]. They were then intragastrically administered the corresponding drugs for 28 days. The effects of PNS on C57BL/6J mice were analyzed by subjecting their dorsal depilated skin samples to different assessments, including hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and Western blotting (WB). The group with 8% PNS exhibited the largest number of hair follicles from 14 days onwards. Compared with the control group, the number of hair follicles increased significantly in the mice treated with 8% PNS and 5% MXD, which significantly increased in a PNS-dose-dependent manner. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence results revealed that treatment with 8% PNS activated the metabolism of hair follicle cells, with them showing higher rates of proliferation and apoptosis than those in the normal group. In qRT-PCR and WB analysis, the expression of β-catenin, Wnt10b, and LEF1 was upregulated in the PNS and MDX groups compared with that in the control group. Examination of the WB bands revealed that the greatest inhibitory effect of Wnt5a occurred in mice in the 8% PNS group. PNS may promote the growth of hair follicles in mice, with 8% PNS demonstrating the strongest effect. The mechanism behind this may be related to the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Comparative Efficacy of Topical Finasteride (0.25%) in Combination with Minoxidil (5%) Against 5% Minoxidil or 0.25% Finasteride Alone in Male Androgenetic Alopecia: A Pilot, Randomized Open-Label Study.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss in males which remains a therapeutic challenge. To compare the efficacy of topical 5% minoxidil and 0.25% finasteride combination (MNF) over 5% minoxidil (MNX) or 0.25% finasteride (FNS) alone by assessing hair count, physician assessment score (PAS), and patient satisfaction score (PSS). Pilot randomized open-label study where 60 male patients with AGA ≥ III grade were randomized into three treatment groups and evaluated over 24 weeks. Improvement in hair count was assessed manually using dermoscopy. Global photographs were used to assess PAS. Side effects were evaluated using relevant laboratory investigations. At the 12th and 24th week, all three groups showed significant improvement in total hair density as compared to baseline (P < 0.001). None of the groups was superior to the other (P > 0.05) at the 12th week but at 24th week, MNF was comparatively superior (P < 0.02). At the 12th week and 24th week, all three groups showed significant improvement in terminal hair density as compared to baseline (P < 0.001). In the 12th week, MNF was comparatively superior (P = 0.028) and at the 24th week, MNF was comparatively superior (P < 0.02). PAS and PSS were significantly better with MNF and MNX compared to FNS (P < 0.004). Side effects such as scaling and itching were reported with MNF and MNX. Topical minoxidil 5% and finasteride 0.25% had an overall better efficacy compared to monotherapy without significant side effects.

Minoxidil weakens newly synthesized collagen in fibrotic synoviocytes from osteoarthritis patients

PurposeSynovial fibrosis (SFb) formation and turnover attributable to knee osteoarthritis (KOA) can impart painful stiffness and persist following arthroplasty. To supplement joint conditioning aimed at maximizing peri-operative function, we evaluated the antifibrotic effect of Minoxidil (MXD) on formation of pyridinoline (Pyd) cross-links catalyzed by Plod2-encoded lysyl hydroxylase (LH)2b that strengthen newly synthesized type-I collagen (COL1) in fibroblastic synovial cells (FSCs) from KOA patients. MXD was predicted to decrease Pyd without significant alterations to Col1a1 transcription by FSCs stimulated with transforming growth factor (TGF)β1.MethodsSynovium from 10 KOA patients grouped by SFb severity was preserved for picrosirius and LH2b histology or culture. Protein and RNA were purified from fibrotic FSCs after 8 days with or without 0.5 µM MXD and/or 4 ng/mL of TGFβ1. COL1 and Pyd protein concentrations from ELISA and expression of Col1a1, Acta2, and Plod2 genes by qPCR were compared by parametric tests with α = 0.05.ResultsHistological LH2b expression corresponded to SFb severity. MXD attenuated COL1 output in KOA FSCs but only in the absence of TGFβ1 and consistently decreased Pyd under all conditions with significant downregulation of Plod2 but minimal alterations to Col1a1 and Acta2 transcripts.ConclusionsMXD is an attractive candidate for local antifibrotic pharmacotherapy for SFb by compromising the integrity of newly formed fibrous deposits by FSCs during KOA and following arthroplasty. Targeted antifibrotic supplementation could improve physical therapy and arthroscopic lysis strategies aimed at breaking down joint scarring. However, the effect of MXD on other joint-specific TGFβ1-mediated processes or non-fibrotic components requires further investigation.

561 Vellus-to-terminal hair follicle reconversion does occur in male pattern balding in a new humanized mouse model of androgenetic alopecia and is promoted by minoxidil and PRP

Based on trichogram evidence, it has been claimed that, once terminal (T) scalp hair follicles (HFs) have been fully miniaturized into vellus (V) HFs in androgenetic alopecia (AGA), these cannot be reconverted into T HFs, even under therapy (Rushton et al. Exp Dermatol 2022). If true, this would mandate early intervention in AGA management, and would render hair transplantation the only meaningful therapy for late-stage AGA. Given that hypertrichosis-inducing drugs and hormones can rapidly induce V-T HF conversion, we wished to probe the validity of this provocative postulate by generating irrefutable histological evidence, using our novel humanized AGA mouse model under long-term therapy with minoxidil (MXL) or platelet rich plasma (PRP).

Biomaterials for Treatment of Baldness.

Androgenic alopecia affects men and women today, where many factors can be the unknown cause of it. It is essential to find a good, effective, and inexpensive treatment for it, as it is a prevalent dermatological condition. Many drugs like minoxidil (MXD) and finasteride (FNS) are commercially used for its treatment but we are still lacking in terms of a complete cure for alopecia. In this study, we came up with different treatment options for alopecia and assessed their advantages and disadvantages. Not only is the treatment part is essential, but the mode of drug delivery is equally important when it comes to hair and its growth for the maximum output. The following discussion considers the idea of nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with drugs and biomaterials used for the treatment of alopecia.