15-Hydroxyprostaglandin Dehydrogenase Inhibitor Restores Endothelial Function Under Dihydrotestosterone-Induced Stress in Human Dermal Microvascular Endothelial Cells

This study explores the effects of dihydroisoquinolinone piperidinylcarboxy pyrazolopyridine (DPP), a 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase inhibitor, on human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMECs) under dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced stress, a factor in androgenetic alopecia. DPP significantly reduced oxidative stress by lowering reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, restored mitochondrial function, and increased ATP production. It also improved endothelial cell migration and tube formation, essential for perifollicular vascularization. DPP mitigated stress-related MAPK pathway signaling, suggesting restored endothelial homeostasis. These findings indicate that DPP may support hair follicle regeneration by preserving endothelial function under DHT-induced conditions, offering potential as a complementary treatment for hair loss. Further in vivo studies are needed to confirm its role in hair follicle regeneration.