Search Results (254)

Background/Objectives: Hair loss, driven by disrupted hair cycles, age-related hormonal imbalances, and oxidative stress, poses significant psychological challenges, necessitating the development of safe and effective therapies. This research investigates the trichogenic potential and underlying mechanisms of a standardized Ageratum conyzoides extract (ACE) using human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) and C57BL/6 mice as models. Methods: HFDPCs were treated with ACE to assess its effects on 5α-reductase activity, estrogen receptor (ERα/ERβ) signaling, and activation of Wnt/β-catenin and MAPK pathways. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and antioxidant enzyme expression were also evaluated. In vivo, C57BL/6 mice were administered ACE orally, and hair regrowth, follicle number and depth, and histological changes were measured. Results: In HFDPCs, ACE inhibited 5α-reductase activity, modulated ERα and ERβ signaling, and activated Wnt/β-catenin and MAPK pathways. ACE treatment at 100 μg/mL significantly increased β-catenin, p-GSK3β, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression (p < 0.01) and decreased Dickkopf-related protein-1 (DKK-)1 expression (p < 0.05). It also upregulated VEGF and other hair-growth-related factors and exhibited substantial antioxidant properties by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and elevating the expression of antioxidant enzymes, notably SOD2 at 100 μg/mL. In C57BL/6 mice, oral administration of ACE significantly increased hair regrowth, with the 50 mg/kg group showing the most prominent effects, including increased hair follicle number and depth compared to the negative control group (p < 0.05). These effects were observed to be dose-dependent and comparable to those of minoxidil. Histological analysis confirmed enhanced anagen-phase follicle development. Conclusions: These findings highlight ACE’s multifaceted biological activity in promoting hair growth through hormonal modulation, pathway activation, and antioxidant protection, positioning it as a promising natural supplement for hair growth and health, although further clinical studies are required to confirm its efficacy in humans. Full article

Alopecia, a prevalent dermatological disorder affecting over half of the global population, is strongly associated with psychological distress. Extracts from Periplaneta americana (L. PA), a medicinal insect resource, exhibit pharmacological activities (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, microcirculation improvement) that align with core therapeutic targets for alopecia. This study aimed to systematically investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of PA extracts in promoting hair regeneration. A strategy combining network pharmacology prediction and in vivo experiments was adopted. The efficacy of a Periplaneta americana extract was validated by evaluating hair regrowth status and skin pathological staining in C57BL/6J mice. Transcriptomics, metabolomics, RT-qPCR, and 16s rRNA techniques were integrated to dissect the underlying mechanisms of its hair-growth-promoting effects. PA-011 significantly promoted hair regeneration in depilated mice via multiple mechanisms: enhanced skin superoxide dismutase activity and upregulated vascular endothelial growth factor expression; modulated FOXO/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and restored skin microbiota homeostasis; and accelerated transition of hair follicles from the telogen to anagen phase. PA-011 exerts hair-promoting effects through synergistic modulation of FOXO/PI3K/AKT signaling and the skin microbiome. As a novel therapeutic candidate, it warrants further systematic investigation for clinical translation. Full article

(1) Background: As society progresses, increasing numbers of individuals are experiencing hair loss, which can be attributed to factors such as unhealthy diets, insufficient sleep, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Currently available pharmacological treatments for hair loss often cause undesirable side effects, highlighting the urgent need to explore safer and more effective agents to promote hair restoration. This study investigated the role of recombinant human type XVII collagen derived from the α1 chain (rhCOL17A1) in facilitating hair growth and restoration. (2) Methods: We analyzed the impact of rhCOL17A1 on the mRNA expression of several growth factors, as well as Bcl-2 and Bax, at the cellular level. Moreover, the effects of rhCOL17A1 on the expression of key proteins in the Wnt/β-catenin and Sonic Hedgehog (SHH)/GLI signaling pathways were examined by Western blotting (WB). At the organismal level, we established a model in C57BL/6 mice through chronic subcutaneous administration of 5% testosterone propionate. We subsequently assessed the effect of rhCOL17A1 on hair regrowth via histological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunofluorescence staining. (3) Results: rhCOL17A1 contributes to the resistance of hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) to apoptosis. rhCOL17A1 activates the Wnt/β-catenin and SHH/GLI signaling pathways, and increases the expression of type XVII collagen (COLXVII), thereby creating a favorable environment for hair growth. Furthermore, rhCOL17A1 exerts a significant growth-promoting effect at the animal level. (4) Conclusions: rhCOL17 promotes hair growth by activating the Wnt/β-catenin and SHH/GLI signaling pathways and upregulating COLXVII expression. Full article

Background/Objectives: Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is a common and distressing side effect of cancer treatment, significantly impacting patients’ psychological well-being. Nanocarriers offer a promising strategy for targeted drug delivery to hair follicles, while chitosan nanoparticles have demonstrated hair-growth-promoting properties. This study explores the potential of chitosan nanoparticles as a topical delivery system for five pharmacological agents—phenobarbital, pioglitazone, rifampicin, N-acetylcysteine, and tacrolimus—to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia. Methods: Drug-loaded chitosan nanoparticles were prepared using the ionic gelation technique and characterized by particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, FT-IR spectroscopy, and TEM imaging. Their efficacy was assessed in a cyclophosphamide-induced alopecia model in C57BL/6 mice through macroscopic observation, histopathological examination, and scanning electron microscopy of regrown hair. Results: The prepared particles were spherical, cationic, and between 205 and 536 nm in size. The entrapment efficiencies ranged from 8% to 63%. All five drugs mitigated follicular dystrophy, shifting the hair follicle response from dystrophic catagen to dystrophic anagen. Phenobarbital demonstrated the most significant hair regrowth and quality improvements, followed by N-acetyl cysteine and pioglitazone. Tacrolimus showed moderate efficacy, while rifampicin was the least effective. Conclusions: These findings suggest that phenobarbital-loaded chitosan nanoparticles represent a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced alopecia, warranting further investigation for clinical applications. Full article

Seed germination is recognized for enhancing the accumulation of bioactive compounds. Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt., commonly known as perilla seed, is rich in fatty acids that may be beneficial for anti-hair loss. This study investigated the hair regeneration potential of perilla seed extracts—non-germinated (NG-PS) and germinated in distilled water (0 ppm selenium; G0-PS), and germinated with 80 ppm selenium (G80-PS)—obtained from supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and screw compression (SC). SFE extracts exhibited significantly higher levels of polyphenols, tocopherols, and fatty acids compared to SC extracts. Among the germinated groups, G0-PS showed the highest bioactive compound content and antioxidant capacity. Remarkably, treatment with SFE-G0-PS led to a significant increase in the proliferation and migration of hair follicle cells, reaching 147.21 ± 2.11% (p < 0.05), and resulted in complete wound closure. In addition, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties were reflected by a marked scavenging effect on TBARS (59.62 ± 0.66% of control) and suppressed nitrite amounts (0.44 ± 0.01 µM). Moreover, SFE-G0-PS markedly suppressed SRD5A1-3 gene expression—key regulators in androgenetic alopecia—in both DU-145 and HFDPCs, with approximately 2-fold and 1.5-fold greater inhibition compared to finasteride and minoxidil, respectively. Simultaneously, it upregulated the expression of hair growth-related genes, including CTNNB1, SHH, SMO, GLI1, and VEGF, by approximately 1.5-fold, demonstrating stronger activation than minoxidil. These findings suggest the potential of SFE-G0-PS as a natural therapeutic agent for promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss. Full article

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most prevalent form of hair loss worldwide, faces significant therapeutic challenges due to high costs and limited efficacy of current interventions, necessitating safer and more effective solutions. Periplaneta americana (L.)-derived PA-011, endowed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, has demonstrated notable hair growth-promoting effects in AGA mouse models. This study employed LC-MS/MS, peptidomics, and network pharmacology to characterize PA-011’s chemical composition and predict its potential targets in AGA pathogenesis. Using Western blot and RT-qPCR, PA-011 intervention significantly inhibited inflammatory responses and oxidative stress levels in mouse skin tissues. Concurrently, PA-011 activated the proliferative potential of hair follicle stem cells, as demonstrated by upregulated expression of the cell proliferation marker Ki67, and activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in DHT-induced AGA mice. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed multi-target effects of PA-011, including modulation of PI3K-Akt/MAPK pathways, pentose phosphate metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis. 16S rRNA sequencing and metagenomic analysis showed that AGA disrupts skin microbial homeostasis, while PA-011 intervention normalized the microbiota composition. Topical application of PA-011 promoted robust hair regrowth without detectable toxicity in safety assessments. This preclinical study establishes PA-011 as a promising candidate for AGA therapy, warranting further translational investigation. Full article

Cadmium (Cd) stress poses significant threats to vegetable crops, impacting their growth, physiological processes, and safety as part of the human food chain. This review systematically summarizes the latest advances in the molecular mechanisms of vegetable crops’ resistance to Cd stress. First, physiological and biochemical responses are outlined, including growth inhibition, impaired photosynthesis, oxidative stress, disrupted nutrient absorption, altered phytohormone levels, and gene expression changes. Next, key molecular mechanisms are discussed, focusing on the roles of transporter-related genes (e.g., NRAMP, HIPP, ABCG), transcription factors (e.g., HsfA1a, WRKY, ERF), enzyme-related genes (e.g., E3 ubiquitin ligase, P-type ATPase), microRNAs (e.g., miR398), and potential functional genes in Cd uptake, translocation, and detoxification. Additionally, the regulatory roles of phytohormones and their analogues (e.g., brassinosteroids, gibberellin, salicylic acid) in mitigating Cd toxicity are analyzed, highlighting their involvement in antioxidant defense, gene regulation, and stress signaling pathways. Finally, future research directions are proposed, emphasizing species-specific defense mechanisms, root hair-specific Cd exclusion mechanisms, and interdisciplinary approaches integrating AI and microbiome manipulation. This review provides a comprehensive reference for enhancing Cd stress resistance in vegetable crops and promoting safe crop production. Full article

Hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) are pluripotent stem cells located in the bulges of hair follicles. Apoptosis regulates tissue homeostasis by eliminating unnecessary or damaged cells during development and aging. VDAC2, located in the outer mitochondrial membrane (MOM), is a key apoptosis regulator, but its role in cashmere goat hair follicles remains unclear. In previous studies, through proteomic sequencing, we found that VDAC2 was significantly differentially expressed in the anagen, catagen, and telogen phases of the hair follicles of Albas cashmere goats. This study aimed to explore the role of VDAC2 in secondary hair follicle stem cells (SHFSCs) and preliminarily investigate its regulatory mechanism through RNA-seq. Overexpression of VDAC2 promoted apoptosis in SHFSCs, while knockdown had the opposite effect. RNA-seq analysis, together with expression validation of downstream genes, indicates that the P53 signaling pathway may be involved in VDAC2-mediated SHFSC regulation. RT-qPCR and Western blotting confirmed that VDAC2 activated the P53 signaling pathway in SHFSCs. Furthermore, the use of a P53 inhibitor after VDAC2 overexpression partially rescued the apoptosis of cells caused by VDAC2. These results demonstrate that VDAC2 plays an important role in SHFSC apoptosis. Our findings greatly enhance our understanding of the role of VDAC2 in SHFSC apoptosis and hair follicle growth. Full article

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a prevalent form of non-scarring hair loss, affecting approximately 32.13% of the population. Seborrheic alopecia is the most frequently observed among its various types, contributing to over 25% of hair loss cases in men. Identifying effective natural compounds or therapeutic agents that stimulate hair growth remains a key research focus. Platycladus orientalis L., known for its medicinal properties, shows potential in promoting hair darkening and regeneration, although its mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, Fr2 of Platycladus orientalis L. was found to significantly enhance hair growth in mice. Similarly, (7E)-7,8-Dehydroheliobuphthalmin (DHHB) was successfully isolated and purified for the first time through a combination of medium-pressure liquid chromatography and two-dimensional high-performance liquid chromatography. In an alopecia areata (AGA) model using dermal papilla cells (DPCs), DHHB was found to significantly promote cell proliferation and differentiation by down-regulating the expression of androgen receptor (AR) proteins, and activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, as compared with the dihydrotestosterone-induced model group. These results indicate that DHHB is a major bioactive compound in Platycladus orientalis L. and represents a promising candidate for promoting hair growth. Full article

The proliferation and maturation of hair follicles in follicular papilla cells are predominantly governed by miRNAs, which significantly influence the cell cycle, apoptosis, and proliferation. miR-370-3p has been associated with several biological processes and targets SMAD4, a crucial component in hair follicle development. Tissue expression profiling revealed significant differences in miR-370-3p levels between skin tissues of the two sheep breeds in January and October, as well as between tissues of the Xinji fine-wool sheep and Small-tail Han sheep. SMAD4 exhibited significant differences in tissue-specific expression in the heart, spleen, skin, lungs, and muscles from Xinji fine-wool sheep and Small-tail Han sheep. Bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assays validated the regulatory interaction between miR-370-3p and SMAD4. CCK-8 experiments demonstrated that miR-370-3p’s targeting of SMAD4 suppressed cell growth. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated that miR-370-3p’s targeting of SMAD4 influenced the cell cycle. Annexin V-FITC/PI dual labeling demonstrated that miR-370-3p’s targeting of SMAD4 promoted cell apoptosis. RT-qPCR data demonstrated that miR-370-3p’s targeting of SMAD4 elevated the expression of JUN, c-MYC, and TCF7L2 while suppressing β-catenin expression. Western blot (WB) analysis demonstrated that miR-370-3p targeting of SMAD4 significantly promoted c-MYC expression while inhibiting CCND1, CCND2, and β-catenin expression. miR-370-3p and SMAD4 exhibit spatiotemporal expression differences in sheep skin tissues, with widespread expression across various tissues. Furthermore, it confirmed that miR-370-3p targets SMAD4 to inhibit follicular papilla cell proliferation, promote apoptosis, and influence the cell cycle. Full article

Arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) constitute a diverse class of hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins implicated in various aspects of plant growth and development. However, their functional characterization in cotton (Gossypium spp.) remains limited. As a globally significant economic crop, cotton serves as the primary source of natural fiber, making it essential to understand the genetic mechanisms underlying its growth and development. This study aims to perform a comprehensive genome-wide identification and characterization of the AGP gene family in Gossypium spp., with a particular focus on elucidating their structural features, evolutionary relationships, and functional roles. A genome-wide analysis was conducted to identify AGP genes in Gossypium spp., followed by classification into distinct subfamilies based on sequence characteristics. Protein motif composition, gene structure, and phylogenetic relationships were examined to infer potential functional diversification. Subcellular localization of a key candidate gene, GhAGP50, was determined using fluorescent protein tagging, while gene expression patterns were assessed through β-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter assays. Additionally, hormonal regulation of GhAGP50 was investigated via treatments with methyl jasmonate (MeJA), abscisic acid (ABA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and gibberellin (GA). A total of 220 AGP genes were identified in Gossypium spp., comprising 19 classical AGPs, 28 lysine-rich AGPs, 55 AG peptides, and 118 fasciclin-like AGPs (FLAs). Structural and functional analyses revealed significant variation in gene organization and conserved motifs across subfamilies. Functional characterization of GhAGP50, an ortholog of AGP18 in Arabidopsis thaliana, demonstrated its role in promoting epidermal hair formation in leaves and stalks. Subcellular localization studies indicated that GhAGP50 is targeted to the nucleus and plasma membrane. GUS staining assays revealed broad expression across multiple tissues, including leaves, inflorescences, roots, and stems. Furthermore, hormonal treatment experiments showed that GhAGP50 expression is modulated by MeJA, ABA, IAA, and GA, suggesting its involvement in hormone-mediated developmental processes. This study presents a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the AGP gene family in cotton, providing new insights into their structural diversity and functional significance. The identification and characterization of GhAGP50 highlight its potential role in epidermal hair formation and hormonal regulation, contributing to a deeper understanding of AGP functions in cotton development. These findings offer a valuable genetic resource for future research aimed at improving cotton growth and fiber quality through targeted genetic manipulation. Full article

Due to the adverse effects associated with synthetic cosmetic ingredients, global demand is increasingly shifting toward natural formulations that offer diverse benefits for enhancing skin health and overall beauty. Researchers around the world are extensively exploring a variety of unique natural secondary metabolites for cosmeceutical applications. Among the potential candidates, phlorotannins derived from brown seaweeds have shown significant potential as an active ingredient in cosmeceutical applications. The notable properties associated with phlorotannins include antioxidant, anti-aging, whitening, anti-wrinkling, anti-inflammatory, and hair health and growth-promoting effects, making them valuable in cosmeceutical formulations. However, to date, only a limited number of studies have critically reviewed the cosmeceutical applications of phlorotannins, and most are outdated. Thus, in the present review, primary attention is given to the collected scientific data published after 2020 about the bioactive properties of brown seaweed phlorotannins related to cosmeceutical applications. Full article

Among the distressing side effects of cancer treatments, hair loss is one of the most disturbing for the quality of life and adherence to therapy in breast cancer patients. Many patients take nutritional supplements to prevent hair loss or enhance regrowth. Based on their mechanism and timing of use, nutritional supplements could be divided into safe, cautious, debated, and contraindicated categories. Non-contraindicated supplements generally include safe supplements like vitamin D, which is not known to interfere with cancer treatments. Those that are contraindicated include phytoestrogens and compounds affecting estrogen pathways because of the risk of stimulating tumor growth in cancers sensitive to estrogen. Antioxidants like tocotrienols and resveratrol are given judiciously because of potential interference with cancer therapies dependent on reactive oxygen species. Supplements debated, including nicotinamide, folate, and iron, pose a risk by promoting cellular proliferation or altering the tumor microenvironment. Biotin is nontoxic but interferes with blood test results and is thus difficult in cancer monitoring. Evidence regarding nutritional supplements’ safety and efficacy in this context is conflicting. Management by an oncologist is required along with more studies to clearly establish the safety parameters and efficacy guidelines. Full article

Hair loss is often associated with oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs), resulting in impaired cellular function and follicle degeneration. Thus, many studies have been conducted on natural plants aimed at inhibiting hair loss. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of exosomes derived from the rhizomes of Iris germanica L. (Iris-exosomes) in HFDPCs damaged by dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Iris-exosomes significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, restoring mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP production, thereby mitigating oxidative stress and improving mitochondrial function. These effects occurred alongside enhanced cellular processes critical for hair follicle regeneration, including increased cell migration, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and three-dimensional (3D) spheroid formation, which replicates the follicle-like microenvironment and promotes inductive potential. Furthermore, Iris-exosomes stimulated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by enhancing glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), AKT, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), leading to β-catenin stabilization and nuclear translocation, thereby supporting the expression of genes essential for hair growth. Taken together, these findings suggest that Iris-exosomes can be promising ingredients for alleviating hair loss. Full article

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss for women and men. Current treatments for androgenetic alopecia, such as those based on drugs like Minoxidil, Finasteride, or Dutasteride, have been associated with a variety of side effects, such as irritation, contact dermatitis, scalp pruritus, burning, etc. In this regard, plant extracts have emerged as promising alternatives to available chemical-based treatments for androgenetic alopecia given their efficacy, customer acceptability, and potentially minimized side effects. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of Kyoh^®, an extract from rocket leaves, as a treatment to improve the signs of androgenetic alopecia. We found that Kyoh^® contained 2.1% total flavonoids, with kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin diglucosides being the most abundant. Additionally, Kyoh^® showed a stimulating effect on the growth of human dermal follicle papilla cells in laboratory conditions. Most importantly, Kyoh^® enhanced the gene expression of the hair growth-associated growth factors VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) and FGF7 (Fibroblast Growth Factor 7). Specifically, VEGF expression increased by 60.7% after 4 h and 267.3% after 24 h, while FGF7 expression increased by 50.3% after 4 h and 244.3% after 24 h, indicating both a rapid induction of gene expression and a sustained effect lasting at least one day. Moreover, Kyoh^® increased the gene expression of NRF2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) by 71.2%, which encodes for a protein participating in the antioxidant response. Overall, our study shows that flavonol-rich rocket extract (Kyoh^®) is a promising treatment for promoting hair growth, demonstrated by its proliferation-promoting effect, potential antioxidant priming, and induction of the expression of growth factors associated with hair growth and health. Full article