Treatment Of Androgenetic Alopecia Research Articles

Czy lek na jaskrę zrewolucjonizuje leczenie łysienia androgenowego? O repozycjonowaniu leku, którego efekt uboczny stał się pożądanym skutkiem terapii.

Prostaglandins are hormones found in almost all mammalian tissues. As signaling molecules, they play a key role in the regulation of many physiological processes, including hair growth cycle. The article describes the history of the discovery of prostaglandins, including the work of Professor Ryszard Gryglewski - the discoverer of prostacyclin. Particular attention was paid to the synthetic analogue of prostaglandin F2α - latanoprost. Indicated for the treatment of glaucoma, the drug is known for inducing eyelash growth as a side effect. A prodrug, latanoprost is converted to its active metabolite, latanoprost acid. Recent research demonstrated that latanoprost acid has a chance to become an effective alternative to minoxidil and finasteride - the only drugs currently registered for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. The development of anti-alopecia drugs containing prostaglandin derivatives, including latanoprost acid, will be a much faster process compared to the traditional path of product development based on a new chemical compound.

Restoration of follicular β-catenin signaling by mesenchymal stem cells promotes hair growth in mice with androgenetic alopecia

BackgroundThe use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is recognized as a promising strategy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, the underlying mechanism remains to be explored. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms of the use of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) in dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced AGA models in vivo and in vitro.MethodsIntradermal transplantation of hUCMSCs was performed in AGA model mice and therapeutic effects were evaluated using histological and immunofluorescence staining. Transwell assays were used for co-culture of hUCMSCs and dermal papilla cells (DPCs), and communication was assessed using RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, and apoptosis analysis. Interactions between DPCs and hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) were investigated using RT-qPCR, EdU assays, and cell cycle analysis. ResultsTreatment of AGA mice with hUCMSCs promoted hair growth, HFs density, skin thickness, and anagen phase activation, while inhibiting DPCs apoptosis, and promoting HFSCs proliferation. In vitro, hUCMSCs activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling in DPCs via Wntless (Wls), while stimulating growth factor secretion and HFSCs proliferation. Blocking β-catenin degradation with MSAB increased DPCs apoptosis, reduced growth factor secretion, and retarded HFSCs proliferation.ConclusionhUCMSCs promoted hair regeneration in AGA model mice. This was found to be dependent on reducing DPCs apoptosis, thereby relieving the inhibitory effects of DPCs on the growth of HFSCs. The activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was shown to play a crucial role in the promotion of hair growth by hUCMSCs in AGA mice.

A Prospective and Comparative Study to Explore the Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Transplantation for Patients With Androgenetic Alopecia.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most prevalent type of hair loss. Traditionally, treatment for AGA has primarily involved the topical application of minoxidil in conjunction with oral finasteride or spironolactone. Recently, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a significant focus of research in hair loss treatment. However, many studies on PRP-assisted hair transplantation have encountered various limitations. This study aims to conduct a prospective, comparative clinical investigation to evaluate the therapeutic effects of combining PRP with minoxidil and finasteride/spironolactone as adjuncts to hair transplantation. From August 2019 to December 2022, we enrolled 30 patients with AGA in the study, randomly assigning them to an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received drug therapy alongside hair transplantation and underwent PRP injections, whereas the control group received only drug therapy to assist with hair transplantation. Prior to surgery, no significant differences in baseline data were observed between the two groups. Following treatment, the experimental group demonstrated significantly improved follicle survival rates, follicle growth rates, and hair strength compared with the control group. This prospective, comparative clinical study demonstrated that the application of PRP in conjunction with pharmacological support during FUE treatment for AGA resulted in improved follicle survival rates, hair growth rates, and hair strength.

Revitalizing Effect on the Scalp After Injection with a Mechanically Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid Complex in Subjects with Androgenetic Alopecia.

Background: Treatments for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) include different drugs, but a treatment based on stabilized hyaluronic acid has not been tested. The aim of this study is to clinically evaluate the effect of six sessions of injections using a hyaluronic acid compound supplemented with vitamins, ions, and amino acids (CH) on hair density and quality in volunteers. Methods: For this purpose, twenty-six healthy volunteers of both sexes with moderate AGA were injected with 3 mL of CH using the micro-papule technique. All received six CH sessions at two-week intervals. Hair loss, hair thickness, and shine were assessed using macro-photographs. A follow-up questionnaire was given to the volunteers at 40 days and at 90 days after the last treatment to determine their level of satisfaction. In addition, a dermatological control was carried out to assess the tolerance of the treatment applied. Results: The results indicate that, after treatment with CH, there is a significant improvement in the thickness, shine, and density of scalp hair, and that the treatment significantly reduces hair loss on the scalp. On a dermatological level, the tolerability of the treatment was excellent with no complications observed. In total, 88.5% of the volunteers indicated that CH treatment improved their appearance. In summary, it can be said that CH treatment reduces hair loss and promotes hair growth. Conclusions: It is suggested that this treatment is effective in reducing the signs and symptoms of alopecia.

Current Landscape and Emerging Therapies in Hair Loss Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia

Current Landscape and Emerging Therapies in Hair Loss Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia

Exosomes derived from Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell promote hair regrowth in C57BL6 mice through upregulation of the RAS/ERK signaling pathway.

Androgenetic alopecia is one of the common types of hair loss and has become a medical and social problem due to its increasingly young onset. Existing therapies, although effective, have serious side effects and therefore better treatments need to be sought. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and to investigate the mechanism of exosome regulation of hair growth. First, we randomly divided 20 C57BL/6J mice into blank group, model group, positive control group and exosomal hydrogel group, and mice were treated with hair removal on the back. The mice were injected intraperitoneally with dihydrotestosterone solution except for the blank group. At the end of the experiment, new hairs were collected and the differences in length, diameter and number of hair follicles were compared among the groups; the histopathological changes of hair follicles were observed by HE staining; the expression of androgen receptor mRNA and protein in skin tissues were compared; and the skin tissues were analyzed by real-time PCR, western blotting, immunofluorescence staining and transcriptome sequencing. Finally, the results of transcriptome sequencing experiments were verified by real-time PCR, western blotting and other techniques for the corresponding genes and proteins. Compared with the blank group, mice in the model group had shorter hair length and reduced hair diameter, and pathological observation showed that the total number of hair follicles was significantly reduced and the hair follicles were miniaturized; compared with the model group, mice in the positive control and exosome groups had longer hair length, larger hair diameter and more hair follicles; the androgen receptor mRNA content and protein expression in the skin tissue of mice in the model group were significantly higher than those in the blank group, and the protein expression in the exosome gel group was lower than that in the model group. Similarly, compared with the model group, the expression of stemness-related proteins K15 and CD200 in the skin tissues of mice in the exosome group increased, and the expression of PCNA, a protein related to cell proliferation, increased. The KEGG data showed that the differential genes were mainly enriched in the RAS/ERK pathway. In this study, we demonstrated the therapeutic effect of umbilical cord MSC-derived exosomes on androgenetic alopecia and verified that exosomes regulate hair follicle stem cell stemness through the RAS/ERK pathway to promote hair proliferation and thus hair growth in mice with androgenetic alopecia, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for androgenetic alopecia.

An Overview of Commonly Used Natural Alternatives for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia, with Special Emphasis on Rosemary Oil.

Androgenetic alopecia is a chronic dermatological condition in which genetically predisposed individuals undergo progressive hair loss secondary to the effects of circulating androgens. It has been well documented that dihydrotestosterone binds to the androgenic receptors prevalent in the scalp, thus inducing miniaturization of the hair follicle. To date, the only FDA approved medications for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia are finasteride and minoxidil. A plethora of studies have been conducted testing the efficacy of various herbal compounds, but additional research is needed to further establish the concrete efficacy of such natural remedies in treating androgenetic alopecia. Of late, rosemary oil has gained mass popularity as a promising natural alternative. This review article will not only provide a detailed background on this ancient herbal component but will additionally overview all other major herbal alternatives including peppermint oil, tea tree oil, green tea, pumpkin seed oil, saw palmetto, and lavender oil and will summarize the latest clinical studies, which have tested their efficacy for the management of androgenetic alopecia.

Role of Autologous Micrografting Technology through Rigenera® System in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia

Introduction: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of baldness, affecting 60–70% of the adult population worldwide, and may have a negative effect on quality life. AGA leads to a progressive thinning of scalp hair and is characterized by a progressive miniaturization of the hair follicle with a specific pattern distribution. Although AGA is a very frequent condition, compelling therapeutic options are still limited. Methods: Herein, we present the protocol of autologous micrografting technology through Rigenera® system allowing to obtain a suspension of autologous micrografts ready to be injected on scalp. This paper combines the results of two studies that evaluated the effects of micrografts in patients with AGA. The first study involved 17 patients who received one micrografts session with a 6-month follow-up. The second study 13 patients who received two micrografts sessions 6 months apart with a follow-up of 6 months after the second session. Clinical assessment involved global photography evaluation and patient’s satisfaction before and after the treatment. Hair measures using TrichoLab were also performed. Results: Most of the patients had a moderate improvement after investigator’s assessment in terms of hair loss reduction and hair density improvement. The assessment of patients was satisfactory in terms of hair improvement and treatment tolerability. Conclusion: In summary, we conclude that this new regenerative approach can be a promising tool for clinicians to obtain a viable, sterile and ready to use micrografts that can be immediately injected into the scalp to improve AGA condition.

Platinum Nanozyme-Loaded Dissolving Microneedles Scavenge ROS and Promote Lineage Progression for Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a prevalent issue affecting the physical and mental health of individuals but with fewer current treatments. Platinum nanozymes (PtNZs) are known for their excellent ability to reduce and modulate the high oxidative stress environment in AGA pathology. And microneedles are used to overcome the skin barrier due to the poor permeability of PtNZs. Herein, dissolving microneedles loaded with PtNZs (Pt-MNs) are designed and successfully induced hair regeneration in the AGA model. Pt-MNs possessed adequate mechanical strength to breach the skin barrier for effective PtNZs delivery. In vivo, PtNZs first reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) to oxygen, which recovered the AGA pathological environment. And the oxygen then increased oxidative phosphorylation, promoting the differentiation of hair follicle stem cells to achieve hair regeneration. The group treated with Pt-MNs with a dosing frequency of once every three days achieved faster hair growth than the daily application of the positive drug minoxidil. Further safety experiments showed that the application of Pt-MNs locally opened temporary and recoverable skin channels, with no retention of Pt in major organs, indicating high safety. In conclusion, this study indicated the potential of Pt-MNs as an effective method for treating AGA.

CGF therapy: bridging androgenetic alopecia observations to psoriasis treatment via IL-17 pathway.

Concentrated Growth Factor (CGF), rich in CD34 + stem cells, is widely used in treatments for androgenetic alopecia and skin rejuvenation due to its immune-modulating properties. Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, presents significant treatment challenges, particularly for patients who cannot use biologics due to conditions such as cancer and lesions resistant to treatments. The potential of CGF in treating psoriasis is promising, given its broad immunoregulatory effects which confirmed in our previous androgenetic alopecia work. We evaluated the impact of CGF on IL-17 levels in two contexts: patients treated for androgenetic alopecia and a psoriasis mouse model. Twelve patients received three monthly injections of CGF, with serum IL-17 levels measured before and after treatment. In the psoriasis mouse model, groups were treated with CGF, and outcomes were assessed using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), skin barrier scores, histological analysis, and RNA sequencing. Additionally, in vitro experiments applied CD34 + cells from CGF to keratinocytes to measure levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-23, and IL-17. In patients with androgenetic alopecia, three monthly CGF injections resulted in significantly reduced serum IL-17 levels. In the psoriatic mouse model, CGF-treated groups exhibited lower PASI scores and improved skin barrier scores compared to controls. Histological analysis revealed enhanced skin characteristics, while RNA sequencing demonstrated downregulated IL-17 and upregulated CD34 expression, as well as improved expression of barrier-related genes. In vitro, the application of CD34 + cells from CGF to keratinocytes led to a significant reduction in TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-23, and IL-17 levels, indicating strong anti-inflammatory effects. A clinical case of a psoriasis patient unresponsive to IL-23 therapy (Guselkumab) showed significant improvement following CGF treatment. These findings indicate that CGF could serve as an effective and versatile treatment for psoriasis, especially for patients who have already undergone biologic therapies but continue to experience resistant lesions.

Synergistic Phytochemical and Pharmacological Actions of Hair RiseTM Microemulsion: A Novel Herbal Formulation for Androgenetic Alopecia and Hair Growth Stimulation.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a genetic condition characterized by an excessive response to androgens, leading to hairline regression in men and hair thinning at the vertex in women, which can negatively impact self-esteem. Conventional synthetic treatments for AGA are often limited by their side effects. In contrast, Thai medicinal plants offer a promising alternative with fewer adverse effects. This study investigates the synergistic phytochemical and pharmacological effects of a novel Hair RiseTM microemulsion, formulated with bioactive extracts from rice bran (Oryza sativa), shallot bulb (Allium ascalonicum), licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and corn kernels (Zea mays), for the treatment of hair loss. The microemulsion, in concentrations of 50%, 75%, and 100% (v/v), significantly enhanced the proliferation of human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) compared to minoxidil. Additionally, it upregulated critical hair growth signaling pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin (CTNNB1), Sonic Hedgehog (SHH, SMO, GLI1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), surpassing standard controls such as minoxidil and purmorphamine. The microemulsion also demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties by reducing nitric oxide production and oxidative stress, factors that contribute to inflammation and follicular damage in AGA. Furthermore, Hair RiseTM inhibited 5α-reductase (types 1-3), a key enzyme involved in androgen metabolism, in both human prostate cancer cells (DU-145) and HFDPCs. These findings suggest that Hair RiseTM microemulsion presents a promising natural therapy for promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss via multiple synergistic mechanisms, offering a potent, plant-based alternative to synthetic treatments.

Novel natural lipids based NLC containing finasteride improved androgenetic alopecia treatment in rats

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common hair loss disorder, affecting millions of men and women worldwide. Current formulations used to treat this condition often lead to a wide variety of side effects, ranging from allergies to sexual disfunction, especially when those drugs are administered orally. In this study, we developed and tested unique formulations containing nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) composed of lipids extracted from fruit seeds, carrying finasteride to enhance efficacy of AGA treatment. By stabilizing the hydrophobic compounds in the solid matrix, three formulations of NLC were engineered and successfully prepared. Further an in vivo model of AGA was induced in rats by the administration of testosterone, as a platform to evaluate the efficiency of the formulations. The chosen formulation exhibited high bioavailability, medium size of 124.5 nm and PdI of 0.143, without systemic absorption. In addition, it promoted efficient and significant follicle restoration in AGA induced rats by increasing number of active bulbs and showed to be a safe formulation for topical application. The results of this research indicate that the presented formulation has significant potential to yield improved outcomes in AGA treatment.

A finasteride patch for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A study of promoting permeability strategy using synthetic novel O-acylmenthols combined with ion-pair

Currently, finasteride (FIN) is approved to treat androgenetic alopecia only orally, and the application of FIN in transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) has introduced a new approach for treating the disease. This study was aimed to develop a FIN transdermal patch for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia（AGA） by combing ion-pair and O-acylmenthols (AM) as chemical permeation enhancers (CPEs). The formulation of patch was optimized though single-factor investigation and Box-Behnken design. The pharmacokinetics and androgenetic alopecia pharmacodynamics of the patch were evaluated. Additionally, the permeability enhancement mechanisms of ion-pair and AMs were explored at both the patch and skin levels. The effects of ion-pair and AMs on the patch were characterized by rheology study, FTIR, and molecular docking, and the effects on the skin were assessed through ATR-FTIR, Raman study, DSC, CLSM and molecular dynamics. The finalized formulation of FIN patches was consisted of 5 % (w/w) synthetic FIN-CA (Citric Acid), 6 % MT-C6 as CPEs, 25-AAOH as a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), with a patch thickness of 80 ± 5 μm. The final Q24 h is 78.22 ± 5.18 μg/cm2. Based on the high FIN permeability, the pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that the FIN patch group exhibited a slower absorption rate (tmax = 7.3 ± 2.7 h), lower peak plasma concentration and slower metabolic rate (t1/2 = 6.2 ± 0.8 h, MRT0-t = 26.0 ± 7.8 h) compared to the oral group. Moreover, the FIN patch also demonstrated the same effect as the oral group in promoting hair growth in AGA mice. The results indicated that both FIN-CA and AMs could enhance the fluidity of the PSA and weaken the interaction between FIN-CA and PSA, thereby promoting the release of the FIN from the patch. The interaction sites on the skin for ion-pair and the four AMs were found in the stratum corneum (SC) of the skin, disrupting the tight arrangement of stratum corneum lipids. This study serves as a reference for the multi-pathway administration of FIN and the combination of ion-pair with AMs to enhance drug permeation.

A bibliometric analysis of alternative drug therapy options in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.

Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil formulations are the only FDA-approved drug therapies for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Research into dutasteride, topical finasteride, and nontopical minoxidil (low-dose oral and sublingual) formulations in the treatment of AGA has spiked within recent years. Early findings show that these alternative drug therapies may have similar to improved efficacy and safety profiles relative to the conventional treatment options. Conducting a bibliometric analysis, compare trends in publications on these alternative drug therapies, identify key contributors, evaluate major findings from top-cited articles, and elucidate gaps in evidence. A search was conducted on the Web of Science database for publications on the use of alternative drug therapies in the treatment of AGA. A total of 95 publications, published between January 2003-March 2024, and their citation metadata were included in the analysis. Dutasteride showed the greatest (n = 37) and longest (20+ years) history of publications, as well as the highest cumulative citations (n = 914); however, nontopical minoxidil showed a burst in research activity within the last 5 years (n = 33 publications since 2019). A relatively low number of randomized control trials (n = 3) for nontopical minoxidil suggests a need for higher-quality evidence. Our analysis reveals major trends, contributors, and gaps in evidence for alternative drug therapies for AGA, which can help inform researchers on their future projects in this growing field of study. There is enthusiasm for exploring off-label formulations: nontopical forms of minoxidil (oral and sublingual), topical finasteride, and mesotherapy.

Comparison between Topical Minoxidil 5% Alone versus Combined with Dutasteride (Topical 0.02% through Microneedling or Oral 0.5 mg) in Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia

Abstract Background Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) in both males and females is considered as the most common hair loss disorder. The importance of this disease comes from intense psychological and emotional distress and disrupted self-image caused by hair loss where there is progressive nonscarring replacement of terminal hair follicles over the frontal and vertex regions by miniaturized follicles, which leads progressively to a visible reduction in hair density. Aim of the Work To assess and compare between the clinical efficacy and safety of topical Minoxidil 5% alone or either with Dutasteride topical 0.02% (through Microneedling) or oral Dutasteride (0.5 mg) in treatment of AGA. Patients and Methods This study was done on 30 patients (24 males and 6 females) with AGA, which were distributed randomly, equally, and blindly into 3 treatment groups (A, B, and C). All were subjected to detailed history taking, examination, and grading. Each patient was instructed to use topical Minoxidil 5% lotion twice daily for 16 weeks in all groups (A, B and C). In addition, group B patients were instructed to use oral Dutasteride 0.5 mg once daily for 16 weeks. Also, Patients in group C were subjected to once per month, of microneedling with topical Dutasteride 0.02% for 4 successive sessions. Furthermore, digital scalp photographs and trichoscope assessment before treatment and at weeks 4,8,12,16 week was done to assess treatment response, as well as 24 week to assess durability of treatment. Also, assessment of patient’s satisfaction, clinical assessment by the physicians through comparing patients' digital photographs, and possible side effects were recorded at the end of treatment (week 16). Results The obtained data from objective parameter regarding hair density, and hair width caliber (through tricoscan) along with subjective parameter regarding patient’s satisfaction including side effects, and physician assessment were tabulated and statistically analyzed. Our study showed clinically significant improvement results in all groups (group C, showed the highest improvement, but group A had the lowest adverse effect profile). This suggests that the novel use of topical Dutasteride (0.02%) through microneedling sessions along with daily use of topical Minoxidil 5% has better result with less systemic side effects than oral Dutasteride (0.5 mg) along with daily use of topical Minoxidil 5%. Moreover, groups B and C showed better results in median hair density and hair width caliber after 16 weeks of treatment. Thus, proofing more efficacy of combined treatment than monotherapy. Although, probably more side effects. In addition, our study showed better results regarding treatment durability in groups B & C more than group A in preserving hair density, while same durability results found in all groups regarding hair width caliber 8 weeks after end of treatment. Conclusion Topical Minoxidil 5% either as montherapy or combined with oral 0.5 mg or topical 0.02% Dutasteride is effective and safe in treating AGA in both males and females. Topical Dutasteride through microneedling is a promising therapy in treatment of AGA of both sexes that may offer same or better results than systemic Dutasteride with negligible side effects.

Intradermal Botulinum Toxin A versus Intradermal Minoxidil in the Management of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Comparative Study

Abstract Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is one of the most frequent clinical complaints encountered by dermatologists. The two most common treatments for AGA are topical minoxidil and finasteride. Several new therapies are emerging or being studied as treatment options for AGA, including PRP injections, intralesional injection of latanoprost. The aim of our study was to assess the efficacy of intradermal minoxidil versus botulinum toxin A in the treatment of AGA. The study was conducted on thirty patients attending the dermatology clinic complaining of AGA. Participants were divided into two groups (15 per group), group A receiving intradermal BTA injections and group B receiving intradermal minoxidil. The participants received one session every 4 weeks for a total of 3 sessions. Follow-up for the patients was done at every session and 12 weeks after last session. Comparison between BTA and minoxidil groups regarding assessment of total, terminal, vellus hair count and terminal/vellus ratio at baseline and 20 weeks of follow up showed no statistically significant difference. Comparison among BTA, the terminal hair count medians were 103, 116, 117, and 157 with a P value 0.003 showing highly statistically significant increase at each follow up visit. Comparison among Minoxidil group at different times of assessment revealed highly significant difference regarding the count of total, terminal, vellus hair and terminal/vellus hair ratio. Regarding the total hair count, the median count was 164, 135, 155, and 176 respectively, with a P value less than 0.001. In the BTA group, 53.3% and in the minoxidil group, 66.7% had an improvement in the total hair count from baseline to 20 weeks. There was significant negative correlation between the terminal hair percent of change (between baseline and 20 weeks) and age in both groups, in BTA group (p = 0.004) and in minoxidil group (P = 0.049). In BTA group, there was significant negative correlation between duration of AGA and % of change from baseline to 20 weeks regarding total count (p = 0.048). Digital and dermoscopic images were taken for AGA patients included in the study, to demonstrate their progress at different treatment times. Conclusion Both intradermal botulinum toxin A and intradermal minoxidil are equally effective treatment modalities of AGA. They are advantageous due to minimal invasiveness and absence of major side effects. Minoxidil is of an affordable cost compared to BTA, therefore, can be considered to be more cost-effective.

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.

Use of growth factor concentrate using derma roller in treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A literature review

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common cause of hair loss in both men and women. Recent advances in regenerative medicine have led to the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with micro-needling as a potential treatment for AGA. However, the clinical effectiveness of this combination therapy remains unclear. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with micro-needling for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia through a systematic review and meta-analysis of available clinical studies. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for studies published up to January 2024. Inclusion criteria were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies that assessed hair density, hair thickness, or patient satisfaction after treatment with PRP and micro-needling. Data were extracted and pooled using a random-effects model, and heterogeneity was assessed with the I² statistic. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for RCTs and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cohort studies. A total of 12 studies involving 546 participants were included. Meta-analysis showed that the combination of PRP and micro-needling significantly increased hair density (mean difference: 18.9 hairs/cm², 95% CI: 15.3-22.5, p < 0.001) and hair thickness (mean difference: 0.4 mm, 95% CI: 0.3-0.5, p < 0.01) compared to controls. Patient satisfaction was also higher in the treatment group. The most commonly reported adverse effects were mild scalp irritation and transient erythema, with no serious adverse events. Moderate heterogeneity was observed among the studies (I² = 42%). The combination of PRP and micro-needling is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for androgenetic alopecia, resulting in significant improvements in hair density and thickness. Further large-scale, high-quality trials are needed to confirm these findings and standardize treatment protocols.

Dutasteride for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: An Updated Review.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common skin disease characterized by progressive hair loss, with negative psychological impacts on patients, especially young people. The primary pathogenesis of AGA involves the action of 5α-reductase converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, leading to gradual miniaturization of genetically susceptible hair follicles. Finasteride inhibits type II 5α-reductase, while dutasteride simultaneously inhibits type I and type II 5α-reductase. Currently, finasteride is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of AGA, but its efficacy remains poor in some patients. This article aims to review the treatment of androgenetic alopecia with dutasteride. Oral dutasteride, intradermal injection of dutasteride (mesotherapy) and other related treatment methods are included. We performed a Medical Subject Heading search in the PubMed database using "androgenetic alopecia" and "dutasteride". Compared to finasteride, oral dutasteride has better efficacy and comparable tolerability, and most adverse events are mild and reversible, making it an effective treatment option for AGA. Mesotherapy with dutasteride is a therapeutic option to reduce the systemic adverse effects of the drug, but there are no standardized treatment protocols and large-scale clinical trials. Microneedling combined with dutasteride solution also has its own unique efficacy for treating AGA. Liposomes or nanoparticles of dutasteride are still under development and may become a more optimized topical formulation in the future.

ThP2.15 - Investigating the use of autologous stem cell therapy in the treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia

Abstract Background and Introduction Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the commonest form of alopecia and is characterised by progressive degeneration of hair follicles and programmed cell death, impacting individuals of both genders. This affects 80% of individuals in the Caucasian population and causes impairment of quality of life. The cause of AGA is complex and involves androgens, genetics, and hormonal miniaturisation. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is the primary androgen responsible for activating pathogenic pathways, resulting in the shortening of terminal follicles. Existing treatment methods are currently limited, and the development of a therapeutic approach that overcomes these limits might be of importance in plastic surgery. Method A comprehensive search is conducted on databases including Pubmed, Medline, Ovid, and Embase. Research studies are extracted and analysed using the PRISMA table. Results The bulge region serves as a vital reservoir of epidermal and melanocytic stem cells. The use of Rigenera® and autologous stem cell therapy has the capability to collect and separate these stem cells (SCs), leading to a 29% ± 5% augmentation in hair density over a span of 6 months. Additional types of multipotent stem cells, such as those found in adipose tissue, bone marrow, and human umbilical cord blood, might potentially be suitable for the purpose of hair regeneration. Possible advantages include a reduced number of biopsies, a shorter treatment duration, and not being limited by the number of donor follicles compared to surgical intervention. Conclusion Autologous stem cell therapy demonstrates potential effectiveness and warrants additional investigation to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of AGA.