Recombinant Type XVII Collagen Promotes Hair Growth by Activating the Wnt/β-Catenin and SHH/GLI Signaling Pathways

July 2025 in “ Cosmetics ”

Yuyao Zhang, Shiyu Yin, Ru Xu, Jiayu Xiao, Yi Rui, Jiahui Mao, Zhiguang Duan, Daidi Fan

recombinant human type XVII collagen rhCOL17A1 Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway SHH/GLI signaling pathway hair follicle dermal papilla cells VEGF IGF-1 FGF-7 telogen phase anagen phase type XVII collagen Wnt signaling SHH signaling dermal papilla cells vascular endothelial growth factor insulin-like growth factor 1 fibroblast growth factor 7 resting phase growth phase

TLDR Recombinant type XVII collagen may help regrow hair by activating specific cell pathways.

The study explores the effects of recombinant human type XVII collagen (rhCOL17A1) on hair growth, highlighting its potential as a safer hair restoration treatment. By activating the Wnt/β-catenin and SHH/GLI signaling pathways, rhCOL17A1 enhances the resistance of hair follicle dermal papilla cells to apoptosis and promotes hair regrowth. The research, conducted on 50 male C57BL/6 mice, demonstrated that rhCOL17A1 increases the expression of growth factors such as VEGF, IGF-1, and FGF-7, facilitating the transition of hair follicles from the telogen to anagen phase. These findings suggest that rhCOL17A1 could be a promising therapeutic agent for hair loss, with potential applications in hair care products to support long-term follicular health. Further studies are needed to evaluate its safety and optimal usage.

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