SRD5A1 and SRD5A2 are both part of the SRD5A gene family, encoding type I and type II 5α-reductase, respectively. With regard to hair loss, 5α-reductase is a type of enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a driving factor in androgenic alopecia (AGA) and, as a result, 5α-reductase inhibitors are … Read more…
SULT1A1 is a gene that encodes for sulfotransferase, an enzyme that catalyzes various reactions throughout the body. Regarding hair loss, sulfotransferase is crucial for activating minoxidil, which requires sulfonation to exert its effects. Some studies suggest that measuring sulfotransferase levels may be possible to predict whether minoxidil will be effective. Others have claimed that the … Read more…
GPR44 is a gene that encodes the G-protein-coupled receptor 44, also known as the prostaglandin D2 receptor (DP2). This receptor plays a pivotal role in various physiological processes, including inflammation and immune responses. GPR44 is considered significant in the context of hair loss because some believe it is involved in hair growth inhibition. Early studies … Read more…
In the last decade, interest in microneedling has exploded, particularly among those using these devices as an adjuvant treatment for androgenic alopecia. As of today, dozens of clinical studies suggest that microneedling can improve hair counts through a range of mechanisms – all through the repeated generation of micro-wounds on the scalp. But as with … Read more…
HMI-115 is a potential new treatment for hair loss that is licensed by Hope Medicine Inc. HMI-115 has been used in a phase 1 clinical trial for hair loss and has been approved by the FDA for phase 2 trials. This treatment is also in phase 2 clinical trials for use in endometriosis. HMI-115 is … Read more…
Pyrilutamide, also known as KX826, is an anti-androgenic drug with a mechanism of action similar to that of flutamide, albeit with potentially fewer side effects. Developed as a treatment for both androgenic alopecia and acne vulgaris, pyrilutamide is currently in phase III clinical trials in China and phase II clinical trials in the US. KX-826 … Read more…
Green tea, derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, is known for its antioxidant properties and numerous health benefits. Rich in catechins and polyphenols, green tea is often said to aid in weight loss, boost metabolism, and promote overall well-being. But what about supporting hair growth? In relation to hair loss, the components present in green … Read more…
Inositol is a sugar found in food that comes in nine forms. The two most common of which are Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol. Inositol isoforms are useful for preventing and treating metabolic and reproductive disorders, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), gestational diabetes, and male fertility issues.[1]Dinicola, S., Unfer, V., Facchinetti, F., Soulage, C.O., Greene, N.D., Bizzarri, … Read more…
Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) is a plant native to Japan, China, and Korea.[1]Royal Horticultural Society, (no date). Japanese Knotweed. Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/weeds/japanese-knotweed (Accessed: 11 May 2015) Japanese knotweed contains compounds such as resveratrol and apigenin – both of which might confer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties.[2]Galiniak, S., Aebisher, D., Bartuskik-Aebisher, D. (2019). Health benefits of … Read more…
Zinc is an essential nutrient found in a variety of foods. It is an essential trace element, meaning that the body cannot generate it on its own and that it is usually only present in very small quantities. An adult human contains around 2-3 g of zinc, about 0.1% of which is replenished daily.[1]Maret, W., … Read more…