Defective Expression of the Gap Junction Protein Pannexin-1 Channel Contributes to the Formation of PCOS-Related Androgenetic Alopecia

The study investigated the role of Pannexin-1 (Panx1), a gap junction protein, in the development of androgenetic alopecia (FAGA) in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). The study included 35 women with PCOS and FAGA, and 25 women with FAGA but without PCOS as a control group. The results showed that serum Panx1 levels were significantly higher in the PCOS group (2.72 ± 1.09 ng/mL) compared to the control group (1.65 ± 0.97 ng/mL), suggesting the presence of low-grade inflammation in PCOS. Additionally, serum LH, insulin, and testosterone levels were significantly higher in the PCOS group. A positive correlation was found between Panx1 levels and HOMA-IR and serum testosterone levels. The study concluded that increased Panx1 levels, along with increased androgens in PCOS, may contribute to the development of FAGA by impairing the communication between the skin and hair follicle, leading to progressive follicle loss and hair loss.