Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Inhibits Autophagy by Suppressing PTEN to Promote Apoptosis in Dermal Papilla Cells

The study investigates the mechanisms behind stress-related hair loss, focusing on the role of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in dermal papilla cells (DPCs). It was found that CRH downregulates PTEN, suppressing autophagy and promoting apoptosis in DPCs, which contributes to hair loss. The research utilized 4D label-free quantitative proteomics and a chronic unpredictable mild stress mouse model to explore these mechanisms. Results showed that CRH activates the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, leading to decreased autophagy and increased apoptosis. Conversely, overexpression of PTEN or the use of rapamycin, which inhibits the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, enhanced autophagy and reduced apoptosis. These findings suggest that targeting PTEN activation or enhancing autophagy could be potential therapeutic strategies for treating stress-induced hair loss disorders like alopecia.