Sulforaphane-Rich Broccoli Sprout Extract Promotes Hair Regrowth in an Androgenetic Alopecia Mouse Model via Enhanced Dihydrotestosterone Metabolism

August 2025 in “ International Journal of Molecular Sciences ”

Laxman Subedi, Duc Dat Le, Eunbin Kim, Subash Phuyal, Arjun Dhwoj Bamjan, Vinhquang Truong, Nam Ah Kim, Jung‐Hyun Shim, Jong Bae Seo, Suk-Jin Oh, Mina Lee, Jin Woo Park

sulforaphane broccoli sprout extract androgenetic alopecia dihydrotestosterone telogen-to-anagen transition hair follicle finasteride minoxidil testosterone Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway BSE AGA DHT

From the encyclopedia

Sulforaphane →

compound from cruciferous vegetables has some mild effects on DHT

Finasteride →

Frontline, gold standard treatment for combatting androgenic alopecia

Minoxidil →

An essential vasodilator with some anti-androgenic effects

Studysummary This study found that sulforaphane-rich broccoli sprout extract significantly accelerated hair regrowth in a mouse model of androgenetic alopecia, suggesting its potential as a safe and effective natural therapy.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The study explores the effects of sulforaphane-rich broccoli sprout extract (BSE) on hair regrowth in a mouse model of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). BSE was found to enhance dihydrotestosterone (DHT) metabolism, a key factor in AGA, and promote hair regrowth by accelerating the telogen-to-anagen transition and increasing hair follicle length and weight. In vivo experiments showed that BSE, particularly at a 20 mg/kg dose, achieved hair regrowth comparable to finasteride and superior to minoxidil. BSE also reduced plasma testosterone and DHT levels, suggesting dual anti-androgenic effects, and activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. The study highlights BSE's potential as a natural therapeutic agent for AGA, with improved safety and efficacy profiles compared to current treatments, although further clinical investigations are needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety in humans.

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