Phytochemical Constitution, Anti-Inflammation, Anti-Androgen, and Hair Growth-Promoting Potential of Shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) Extract

Changes in chemical composition, volatile compound, and bioactive compounds retention in shallots (Allium ascalonicum L.) under different drying methods

Shallots (Allium ascalonicum L.) are widely used in culinary and medicinal applications due to their rich bioactive compounds and health benefits. This study examines the effects of freeze drying, sun drying, and hot air drying at 40, 60, and 80 °C on chemical and bioactive compounds in shallots. Hot air drying at 80 °C had the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Freeze drying increased syringic, p-coumaric, protocatechuic, vanillic, and ferulic acids. Quercetin was highest in freeze drying. Apigenin increased in samples that was dried by hot air drying at 80 °C. Proline was the major amino acid; arginine increased by 34 % in sun drying. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed polysaccharides, lipids-proteins, and amino acids. Eucalyptol was the predominant volatile component in fresh shallot and most preserved by freeze drying. The results underscore the significance of choosing suitable drying methods to preserve shallot bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties.

Comparison of In Vitro Hair Growth Promotion and Anti-Hair Loss Potential of Thai Rice By-Product from Oryza sativa L. cv. Buebang 3 CMU and Sanpatong

The bioactive compounds in herbal extracts may provide effective hair loss treatments with fewer side effects compared to synthetic medicines. This study evaluated the effects of Buebang 3 CMU and Sanpatong rice bran extracts, macerated with dichloromethane or 95% ethanol, on hair growth promotion and hair loss prevention. Overall, Buebang 3 CMU extracts contained significantly higher levels of bioactive compounds, including γ-oryzanol, tocopherols, and various polyphenols such as phytic acid, ferulic acid, and chlorogenic acid, compared to Sanpatong extracts. Additionally, ethanolic extracts demonstrated greater bioactive content and antioxidant activities than those extracted with dichloromethane. These compounds enhanced the proliferation of human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) by 124.28 ± 1.08% (p < 0.05) and modulated anti-inflammatory pathways by reducing nitrite production to 3.20 ± 0.36 µM (p < 0.05). Key hair growth signaling pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin (CTNNB1), Sonic Hedgehog (SHH, SMO, GLI1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), were activated by approximately 1.5-fold to 2.5-fold compared to minoxidil. Also, in both human prostate cancer (DU-145) and HFDPC cells, the ethanolic Buebang 3 CMU extract (Et-BB3-CMU) suppressed SRD5A1, SRD5A2, and SRD5A3 expression-key pathways in hair loss-by 2-fold and 1.5-fold more than minoxidil and finasteride, respectively. These findings suggest that Et-BB3-CMU holds promise for promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.

Effect of Particle Size on Physical Properties, Dissolution, In Vitro Antioxidant Activity, and In Vivo Hepatoprotective Properties of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg Powders

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of different particle sizes of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg (TDG) powders on physical properties, dissolution, in vitro antioxidant activity, and in vivo hepatoprotective properties. Methods: The particle size of TDG coarse powders (TDG-CP), TDG fine powders (TDG-FP), and TDG micro powders (TDG-MP) were measured by a laser particle size analyzer. The physical properties were measured according to the latest version of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (Committee Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020). The content of the total flavonoids, total polysaccharides, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, and rutin of TDG powders were determined using the NaNO2-Al (NO3)3 colorimetric method, the sulphate-phenol colorimetric method, and HPLC, respectively. In vitro dissolution and antioxidant activity were determined by the paddle method in phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) and the DPPH radical scavenging method, respectively. In addition, the liver tissue pathology was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E), and the AST and ALT activities were measured by automatic biochemical analyzer. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) activities were measured by using commercial analysis kits. Results: As the particle size decreases, the fluidity of TDG powders decreased and the porosity increased. In addition, there were no significant differences in physical properties between low temperature pulverized powders and room temperature pulverized powders. The final dissolution rates of the four bioactive ingredients in TDG-MP were found to be 85.06%, 85.61%, 83.88%, and 83.26%, respectively, whereas in TDG-CP, the dissolution rates were significantly lower at 18.79%, 17.96%, 22.46%, and 24.35%. The EC50 values of TDG-CP, TDG-FP, and TDG-MP on DPPH scavenging activity were 0.82, 0.31, and 0.10 mg/mL, respectively. The AST and ALT activities of the TDG-FP group and the TDG-MP group were significantly decreased and the SOD, CAT, and GSH activities were significantly increased when compared with that of the model group. The inflammatory cell infiltration and vacuolar degeneration of liver cells in the TDG-FP group and the TDG-MP group were significantly improved. Conclusions: The particle size of TDG powders had a significant effect on the physical properties and in vivo bioactivity. TDG pulverized to a fine particle size or smaller is a promising approach for clinical applications with improved physicochemical and biological properties.

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.

Can Plant Extracts Help Prevent Hair Loss or Promote Hair Growth? A Review Comparing Their Therapeutic Efficacies, Phytochemical Components, and Modulatory Targets

This narrative review aims to examine the therapeutic potential and mechanism of action of plant extracts in preventing and treating alopecia (baldness). We searched and selected research papers on plant extracts related to hair loss, hair growth, or hair regrowth, and comprehensively compared the therapeutic efficacies, phytochemical components, and modulatory targets of plant extracts. These studies showed that various plant extracts increased the survival and proliferation of dermal papilla cells in vitro, enhanced cell proliferation and hair growth in hair follicles ex vivo, and promoted hair growth or regrowth in animal models in vivo. The hair growth-promoting efficacy of several plant extracts was verified in clinical trials. Some phenolic compounds, terpenes and terpenoids, sulfur-containing compounds, and fatty acids were identified as active compounds contained in plant extracts. The pharmacological effects of plant extracts and their active compounds were associated with the promotion of cell survival, cell proliferation, or cell cycle progression, and the upregulation of several growth factors, such as IGF-1, VEGF, HGF, and KGF (FGF-7), leading to the induction and extension of the anagen phase in the hair cycle. Those effects were also associated with the alleviation of oxidative stress, inflammatory response, cellular senescence, or apoptosis, and the downregulation of male hormones and their receptors, preventing the entry into the telogen phase in the hair cycle. Several active plant extracts and phytochemicals stimulated the signaling pathways mediated by protein kinase B (PKB, also called AKT), extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), Wingless and Int-1 (WNT), or sonic hedgehog (SHH), while suppressing other cell signaling pathways mediated by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β or bone morphogenetic protein (BMP). Thus, well-selected plant extracts and their active compounds can have beneficial effects on hair health. It is proposed that the discovery of phytochemicals targeting the aforementioned cellular events and cell signaling pathways will facilitate the development of new targeted therapies for alopecia.

Antibacterial activity of Shallots (Allium xwakegi Araki.) cultivars in Palu Valley against Salmonella Typhi ATCC 27870 through in vitro and in silico evaluation

Background and Objectives

Shallots, recognized for their minimal toxicity, cost-effectiveness, and widespread availability, are increasingly considered a viable source of biological activity. This study evaluates the antibacterial efficacy of a specific shallot cultivar from Palu Valley, Indonesia, against Salmonella typhi, the pathogen responsible for typhoid fever.

Materials and Methods

Utilizing thin-layer chromatography (TLC-bioautography) and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), the study identifies active compounds in shallot ethanol extract and employs molecular docking to assess interactions between receptors and ligands.

Results

Findings indicate significant antibacterial activity, with a notable inhibition zone diameter of 31.5 mm at spot Rf 0.28 in TLC bioautography and an optimum concentration of 2% yielding an average clear zone diameter of 28.27 mm in the agar diffusion test. GC-MS analysis reveals 41 compounds, predominantly dodecanoic acid and 1,2,3-propanetriyl ester. Additionally, molecular docking reveals the lowest binding affinity (-7.3 kcal/mol) for Ergost-8-En-3-Ol, 14-Methyl-, (3.Beta,5. Alpha.) against DNA gyrase.

Conclusion

This study confirms Palu Valley shallot extract's potent antibacterial effect against Salmonella typhi, highlighting its therapeutic potential.

Progress on the mechanism of natural products alleviating androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) has become a widespread problem that leads to considerable impairment of the psyche and daily life. The currently approved medications for the treatment of AGA are associated with significant adverse effects, high costs, and prolonged treatment duration. Therefore, natural products are being considered as possible complementary or alternative treatments. This review aims to enhance comprehension of the mechanisms by which natural products treat AGA. To achieve this, pertinent studies were gathered and subjected to analysis. In addition, the therapeutic mechanisms associated with these natural products were organized and summarized. These include the direct modulation of signaling pathways such as the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, the PI3K/AKT pathway, and the BMP pathway. Additionally, they exert effects on cytokine secretion, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capabilities, as well as apoptosis and autophagy. Furthermore, the review briefly discusses the relationship between signaling pathways and autophagy and apoptosis in the context of AGA, systematically presents the mechanisms of action of existing natural products, and analyzes the potential therapeutic targets based on the active components of these products. The aim is to provide a theoretical basis for the development of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, or dietary supplements.

Hair Growth Promotion and Anti-Hair Loss Effects of By-Products Arabica Coffee Pulp Extracts Using Supercritical Fluid Extraction

Coffee has been a common ingredient in many traditional hair loss remedies, but limited scientific evidence supports its use, particularly in coffee pulp. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is caused by androgens, inflammation, and oxidative stress. In the present study, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) was used under various conditions to obtain six coffee pulp extracts. The SFE-4 extract, using 50% (v/v) ethanol as a co-solvent at conditions of 100 °C and 500 bars for 30 min, exhibited the highest phenolic, flavonoid, and caffeine contents. Additionally, the SFE-4 extract increased the migration and cell proliferation of HFDPCs (human hair follicle dermal papilla cells), which control hair cycle regulation, and had scavenging effects on ABTS and DPPH radicals. Additionally, the SFE-4 extract showed potassium ion channel opener activity in HFDPCs, as well as a stimulation effect on the enzyme matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) (28.53 ± 1.08% of control), which may be related to the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene upregulation. In human prostate cancer cells (DU-145) and HFDPC cells, the SFE-4 extract significantly decreased the expression of SRD5A1, SRD5A2, and SRD5A3, an essential pathway involved in AGA. Hair growth factor genes in the Wnt/-catenin (CTNNB1) and Sonic Hedgehog (SHH, SMO, and GLI1) pathways could be significantly activated by the SFE-4 extract. These results imply that employing SFE in coffee pulp extraction could help AGA treatment by preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth pathways. This would help small coffee producers gain economic empowerment and ensure the long-term sustainability of agricultural waste utilization.

Treatment of androgenetic alopecia by exosomes secreted from hair papilla cells and the intervention effect of LTF

BACKGROUND

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of chronic progressive hair loss in men, and AGA has a severe negative impact on the quality of life and physical and mental health of patients.

METHODS

Four female C57BL/6 mice were isolated from DP cells in culture (≤4 generations) after stimulation of DPC proliferation by herbal concentrations obtained by the CCK-8 method, and exosomes were isolated by differential centrifugation at low temperature. Testosterone propionate and topical hair removal treatments were used together to establish the C57BL/6 mouse AGA model, which was treated with LTF, 5% minoxidil, and LTF-DPC-EXO, respectively. ELISA was used to detect serum hormone levels, in vivo tracing was used to observe dynamic changes in exosomes, H&E staining showed changes in mouse hair follicle tissue, and (q) RT-PCR and WB were used to detect dorsal skin VEGF, AKT1, and CASP3 expression in dorsal skin tissues.

RESULTS

Hair regeneration was significant in the LTF group, minoxidil group, and LTF-DPC-EXO group mice, and the hair growth was only seen in the local skin in the model group. The hormone T in all treatment groups was lower than that in the model group, and e2 was higher than that in the model group. (q) RT-PCR and western blot showed that VEGF and AKT1 expressions were upregulated and Caspase3 expression was downregulated in the skin sections of mice in the treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

DPC-EXO obtained through LTF may activate AKT1 and VEGF in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to inhibit CASP3, thereby protecting DPC to restore the hair growth.

Wound Healing Effect of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Datura metel L. Leaves Extracts: An In Vitro Study of Anti-Inflammation, Cell Migration, MMP-2 Inhibition, and the Modulation of the Sonic Hedgehog Pathway in Human Fibroblasts

Datura metel L. (thorn apple) has been used in Thai folk wisdom for wound care. In this study, we chose supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (scCO₂) to develop crude extraction from the leaves of the thorn apple. The phytochemical profiles were observed using liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). The biological activities of D. metel were performed through antioxidant assays, anti-inflammation based on the Griess reaction, the migration assay, the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and regulatory genes in fibroblasts. Dm1 and Dm2 extracts were obtained from scCO₂ procedures at different pressures of 300 and 500 bar, respectively. Bioactive compounds, including farnesyl acetone, schisanhenol B, and loliolide, were identified in both extracts. The antioxidant properties of both D. metel extracts were comparable to those of l-ascorbic acid in hydrogen peroxide-induced fibroblasts with no significant difference. Additionally, Dm1 and Dm2 significantly inhibited the nitrite production levels of 1.23 ± 0.19 and 1.52 ± 0.05 μM, respectively, against the lipopolysaccharide-treated group (3.82 ± 0.39 μM). Interestingly, Dm1 obviously demonstrated the percentage of wound closure with 58.46 ± 7.61 and 82.62 ± 6.66% after 36 and 48 h of treatment, which were comparable to the commercial deproteinized dialysate from the calf blood extract. Moreover, both extracts were comparable to l-ascorbic acid treatment in their ability to suppress the expression of MMP-2: an enzyme that breaks down collagen. The gene expressions of SHH, SMO, and GLI1 that control the sonic hedgehog pathway were also clearly upregulated by Dm1. Consequently, the scCO₂ technique could be applied in D. metel extraction and contribute to potentially effective wound closure.

Effects of Allium hookeri Extracts on Hair-Inductive and Anti-Oxidative Properties in Human Dermal Papilla Cells

Oxidative stress and cellular senescence in dermal papilla cells (DPCs) are major etiological factors causing hair loss. In this study, the effect of the Allium hookeri extract (AHE) on hair-inductive and anti-oxidative properties was investigated in human DPCs. As a result, it was found that a non-cytotoxic concentration of the extracts increased the viability and size of the human DPC spheroid, which was associated with the increased expression of hair-growth-related genes in cells. To determine whether or not these effects could be attributed to intracellular anti-oxidative effects, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry alongside various biochemical analyses are conducted herein. An ingredient called alliin was identified as one of the main components. Furthermore, AHE treatment induced a significant decrease in H₂O₂-mediated cytotoxicities, cell death, and cellular senescence in human DPCs. Upon analyzing these results with a molecular mechanism approach, it was shown that AHE treatment increased β-Catenin and NRF2 translocation into the nucleus while inhibiting the translocation of NF-κB (p50) through p38 and PKA-mediated phosphorylations of GSK3β, an upstream regulator of those proteins. These results overall indicate the possibility that AHE can regulate GSK3β-mediated β-Catenin, NRF2, and NF-κB signaling to enhance hair-inductive properties and ultimately protect against oxidative stress-induced cellular damage in human DPCs.

Natural Melanogenesis Inhibitor, Antioxidant, and Collagen Biosynthesis Stimulator of Phytochemicals in Rice Bran and Husk Extracts from Purple Glutinous Rice (Oryza sativa L. cv. Pieisu 1 CMU) for Cosmetic Application

Oryza sativa L. cv. Pieisu 1 CMU (PES1CMU) has a high anthocyanin content in the colored bran and high phenolic content in the husk. Biologically active compounds in plants are available as dietary supplements and cosmetics. To expand the utilization of natural resources, PES1CMU will be a natural remedy for skin hyperpigmentation and aging. Cell-free tyrosinase inhibition and scavenging assays were used to screen all extracts, including PES1CMU-rice bran oil (RBO), PES1CMU-defatted rice bran (DFRB), and PES1CMU-husk (H). PES1CMU extracts were first examined in IBMX-stimulated B16 cells and H₂O₂-induced fibroblasts. The results exhibited that PES1CMU-DFRB was the most effective inhibitor of mushroom tyrosinase, intracellular melanin production (fold change of 1.11 ± 0.01), and tyrosinase activity (fold change of 1.22 ± 0.10) in IBMX-stimulated B16 cells. Particularly, PES1CMU-DFRB showed a comparable whitening effect to the standard arbutin with no significant difference (p > 0.05). Moreover, PES1CMU-DFRB and PES1CMU-H demonstrated strong scavenging activities. After accelerated cell aging caused by H₂O₂ exposure in fibroblasts, the levels of malondialdehyde production in all PES1CMU-treated fibroblasts were comparable with those of standard l-ascorbic acid (p > 0.05). Besides, PES1CMU-DFRB and PES1CMU-H treatment significantly inhibited collagen degradation against MMP-2 compared to l-ascorbic acid-treated cells (p > 0.05). PES1CMU rice-processing wastes (DFRB and H) could become potential natural sources for dermatocosmetic constituents in skin anti-aging and whitening products.

Regulatory Effects of Thai Rice By-Product Extracts from Oryza sativa L. cv. Bue Bang 3 CMU and Bue Bang 4 CMU on Melanin Production, Nitric Oxide Secretion, and Steroid 5α-Reductase Inhibition

Alopecia and gray hair are common hair abnormalities affecting physical appearance and causing psychological problems. Chemical treatments partially restore hair disorders but have distressing side effects. Bioactive plant compounds constitute promising sources of potential medicinal substances instead of chemical agents, producing high side effects. In this study, we focused on the waste of local rice cultivars: Bue Bang 3 CMU (BB3CMU) and Bue Bang 4 CMU (BB4CMU) from the north of Thailand. The rice bran oil (RBO), defatted rice bran extract (DFRB), and rice husk (H) were determined for in vitro hair revitalization in melanin production, nitric oxide (NO) secretion, and steroid 5α-reductase inhibition. The results indicated that BB4CMU-RBO with high contents of iron, zinc, and free fatty acids showed a comparable induction of melanin production on melanocytes (130.18 ± 9.13% of control) to the standard drug theophylline with no significant difference (p > 0.05). This promising melanin induction could be related to activating the NO secretion pathway, with the NO secretion level at 1.43 ± 0.05 µM. In addition, BB4CMU-RBO illustrated a significant inhibitory effect on both steroid 5α-reductase genes (SRD5A) type 1 and type 2, which relates to its primary source of tocopherols. Hence, rice bran oil from the Thai rice variety BB4CMU could be applied as a promising hair revitalizing candidate, from natural resources, to help promote hair growth and re-pigmentation effects.

Role and Mechanisms of Phytochemicals in Hair Growth and Health

Hair health is associated with personal distress and psychological well-being. Even though hair loss (alopecia) does not affect humans' biological health, it affects an individual's social well-being. So, treatment for hair problems and improving hair health are obligatory. Several pharmacological and cosmeceutical treatment procedures are available to manage hair loss and promote growth. Several factors associated with hair health include genetics, disease or disorder, drugs, lifestyle, chemical exposure, and unhealthy habits such as smoking, diet, and stress. Synthetic and chemical formulations have side effects, so people are moving towards natural compounds-based remedies for their hair problems. The history of using phytochemicals for hair health has been documented anciently. However, scientific studies on hair loss have accelerated in recent decades. The current review summarizes the type of alopecia, the factor affecting hair health, alopecia treatments, phytochemicals' role in managing hair loss, and the mechanisms of hair growth-stimulating properties of phytochemicals. The literature survey suggested that phytochemicals are potent candidates for developing treatment procedures for different hair problems. Further detailed studies are needed to bring the scientific evidence to market.

Topical Delivery of Atraric Acid Derived from Stereocaulon japonicum with Enhanced Skin Permeation and Hair Regrowth Activity for Androgenic Alopecia

Atraric acid (AA) is a phenolic compound isolated from Stereocaulon japonicum that has demonstrated anti-androgen properties and was used to design an alternative formulation for the treatment of alopecia. This new topical formulation was designed using a solvent mixture system composed of ethanol as a volatile vehicle, oleic acid as a permeation enhancer, and water for skin hydration. The ideal topical AA formulation (AA-TF#15) exhibited an 8.77-fold higher human skin flux and a 570% increase in dermal drug deposition, compared to 1% (w/w) AA in ethanol. In addition, compared to other formulations, AA-TF#15 (1% [w/w] AA) activated keratinocytes and human dermal papilla cell proliferation at a concentration of 50 µM AA, which is equivalent to 50 µM minoxidil. Moreover, AA-TF#15 treatment produced a significant increase in hair regrowth by 58.0% and 41.9% compared to the 1% (w/w) minoxidil and oral finasteride (1 mg/kg)-treated mice. In addition, AA-TF#15 showed a higher expression level of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1, β-catenin, cyclin D1, and pyruvate kinase M2 proteins in the skin of AA-TF#15-treated mice compared to that of those treated with minoxidil and oral finasteride. These findings suggest AA-TF#15 is an effective formulation for the treatment of scalp androgenic alopecia.

New Insights into the Research of Bioactive Compounds from Plant Origins with Nutraceutical and Pharmaceutical Potential

Plant bioactive compounds are essential for human health due to their multiple biological effects, such as antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antiallergenic, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and antimicrobial activities, which can have beneficial effects on various noncommunicable diseases, such as autoimmune, inflammatory, cardiovascular, cancer, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases [...].

Water extract of cacumen platycladi promotes hair growth through the Akt/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathway

Cacumen Platycladi (CP) consists of the dried needles of Platycladus orientalis L.) Franco. It was clinically demonstrated that it effectively regenerates hair, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Thus, we employed shaved mice to verify the hair growth-promoting capability of the water extract of Cacumen Platycladi (WECP). The morphological and histological analyses revealed that WECP application could significantly promote hair growth and hair follicles (HFs) construction, in comparison to that of control group. Additionally, the skin thickness and hair bulb diameter were significantly increased by the application of WECP in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, the high dose of WECP also showed an effect similar to that of finasteride. In an in vitro assay, WECP stimulated dermal papilla cells (DPCs) proliferation and migration. Moreover, the upregulation of cyclins (cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4)) and downregulation of P21 in WECP-treated cell assays have been evaluated. We identified the ingredients of WECP using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS) and endeavored to predict their relevant molecular mechanisms by network analysis. We found that the Akt (serine/threonine protein kinase) signaling pathway might be a crucial target of WECP. It has been demonstrated that WECP treatment activated the phosphorylation of Akt and glycogen synthase kinase-3-beta (GSK3β), promoted β-Catenin and Wnt10b accumulation, and upregulated the expression of lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1 (LEF1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1). We also found that WECP significantly altered the expression levels of apoptosis-related genes in mouse dorsal skin. The enhancement capability of WECP on DPCs proliferation and migration could be abrogated by the Akt-specific inhibitor MK-2206 2HCl. These results suggested that WECP might promote hair growth by modulating DPCs proliferation and migration through the regulation of the Akt/GSK3β/β-Catenin signaling pathway.

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Leaf Extract as Bioactive Substances for Anti-Androgen and Antioxidant Activities

Leaves of guava (Psidium guajava L.) have been used in Thai folk medicine without any supporting evidence as a traditional herbal remedy for hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is chronic hair loss caused by effects of androgens in those with a genetic predisposition, resulting in hair follicle miniaturization. Our objectives were to provide the mechanistic assessment of guava leaf extract on gene expressions related to the androgen pathway in well-known in vitro models, hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPC), and human prostate cancer cells (DU-145), and to determine its bioactive constituents and antioxidant activities. LC-MS analysis demonstrated that the main components of the ethanolic extract of guava leaves are phenolic substances, specifically catechin, gallic acid, and quercetin, which contribute to its scavenging and metal chelating abilities. The guava leaf extract substantially downregulated SRD5A1, SRD5A2, and SRD5A3 genes in the DU-145 model, suggesting that the extract could minimize hair loss by inhibiting the synthesis of a potent androgen (dihydrotestosterone). SRD5A suppression by gallic acid and quercetin was verified. Our study reveals new perspectives on guava leaf extract's anti-androgen properties. This extract could be developed as alternative products or therapeutic adjuvants for the treatment of AGA and other androgen-related disorders.

The Molecular Mechanism of Natural Products Activating Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway for Improving Hair Loss

Hair loss, or alopecia, is a dermatological disorder that causes psychological stress and poor quality of life. Drug-based therapeutics such as finasteride and minoxidil have been clinically used to treat hair loss, but they have limitations due to their several side effects in patients. To solve this problem, there has been meaningful progress in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of hair growth and finding novel targets to develop therapeutics to treat it. Among various signaling pathways, Wnt/β-catenin plays an essential role in hair follicle development, the hair cycle, and regeneration. Thus, much research has demonstrated that various natural products worldwide promote hair growth by stimulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. This review discusses the functional role of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and its related signaling molecules. We also review the molecular mechanism of the natural products or compounds that activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling and provide insights into developing therapeutics or cosmeceuticals that treat hair loss.