3-Hydroxypropionic Acid Enhances Hair Growth-Related Signaling in Human Follicle Dermal Papilla Cells via Activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway

This study demonstrates that 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) enhances hair growth-related functions in human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, particularly under oxidative stress conditions. 3-HP improves cell viability, reduces intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and supports mitochondrial function, which are essential for hair follicle regeneration. It also modulates gene expression by upregulating IGF-1 and WNT10B while reducing DKK-1 levels. These findings suggest that 3-HP could be a promising therapeutic agent for hair loss treatment, though further in vivo studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.