Cepharanthine Induces Proliferation of Human Dermal Papilla Cells and Stimulates Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression Through Increased Intracellular Calcium Mobilization and Hypoxia-Inducible Factor Activation

Cepharanthine (CEP), a compound derived from Stephania cephalantha, was studied for its effects on hair growth, particularly focusing on human dermal papilla cells (hDPCs). The study found that CEP and two of its structural analogues significantly promoted the proliferation of hDPCs and increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in these cells. This effect was linked to increased intracellular calcium mobilization and activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF-1α and HIF-2α), even under normal oxygen conditions. These findings suggested that CEP and its analogues could potentially aid in hair growth by enhancing hDPC proliferation and VEGF expression.