Research Paper: Effects of Fructus Ligustri Lucidi Water Extract on Proliferation and Intracellular Signaling of Dermal Papilla Cells

The study investigated the effects of Fructus Ligustri Lucidi water extract (FLLW) on human hair dermal papilla cells (HHDPc). Using MTT assays and Western blot analysis, it was found that FLLW and minoxidil significantly increased HHDPc proliferation. Specifically, FLLW at 10 μg/mL increased ERK phosphorylation by 234% and Akt phosphorylation by 120%, while minoxidil at 0.1 μM increased ERK phosphorylation by 188% and Akt phosphorylation by 119%. The conclusion was that FLLW promotes HHDPc survival by activating ERK and Akt pathways, suggesting it could stimulate hair growth by extending the anagen phase.