The study focused on Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), commonly known as male pattern baldness.
It is caused by genetic and hormonal factors, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
“AGA is characterised by the gradual shrinking of hair follicles, which occurs due to alterations in the hair growth cycle dynamics.”
While it is a major concern, researchers highlighted the limitations of existing treatments such as oral finasteride and topical minoxidil.
“However, finasteride fails to address the inflammatory and oxidative stress responses that affect the miniaturisation of hair follicles. Minoxidil improves blood supply but does not directly regulate the cellular signalling pathway or inhibit inflammatory cytokine activity.”
Such issues are driving the demand for more botanical solutions as alternatives.
The study investigated how it could mitigate the damage to human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) caused by DHT and promote hair growth.
The research led them to study Astragalus sinicus, a flowering plant commonly known as Chinese milkvetch with medical significance in East Asian medicine.
It is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The researchers highlighted that it contains “chemical components and structures such as triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, and glycosides”. It hypothesised that these components could improve hair loss.
Key results
The study demonstrated that ASE markedly enhanced cell viability in HFDPCs compared to the control group.
It also demonstrated that the cell proliferation rate was enhanced by ASE after 24 hours and 48 hours.
A wound healing assay was also conducted to assess the effects of ASE on cell migration in HFDPCs damaged by DHT.
“Assessing the mobility of HFDPCs is crucial for hair growth and regeneration,” said the researchers.It revealed a “marked increase in cell migration” as ASE exhibited a “significant dose-dependent enhancement in wound healing.”
Additionally, increased Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity was observed.
ALP, a marker for hair growth promotion, was found to be “substantially increased” in HFDPCs treated with ASE.
Mechanism of action
The researchers believe ASEs promote hair growth by suppressing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, thereby mitigating cell damage.
Additionally, ASEs contribute to mitochondrial improvement by restoring mitochondrial function and enhancing ATP production, which is essential for cellular energy and growth.
Furthermore, ASEs activate critical signalling pathways, including the ERK/AKT and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, which play vital roles in promoting cell proliferation and the development of hair follicles.
These combined effects position ASEs as potential agents for stimulating hair growth and improving follicular health.
The researchers believe that existing treatments like finasteride and minoxidil have limitations in addressing inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular signalling pathways.
Therefore, ASEs could “potentially address the current gap in hair enhancement methods”.
Researchers said further research was needed, including ex-vivo hair organ culture studies, as well as and clinical trials to ensure effective penetration, bioavailability, safety and efficacy of ASEs as a hair loss treatment.
