Hair Growth-Promoting Activity of Ginsenoside Rf from Panax Ginseng C.A. Meyer, an Industrial Crop-Derived Functional Material

The study explores the hair growth-promoting effects of ginsenoside Rf (G-Rf) from Panax ginseng on androgenetic alopecia (AGA) using a DHT-induced mouse model and human dermal papilla cells. G-Rf was shown to enhance hair regrowth, modulate androgen receptor stability, and improve hair follicle regrowth and thickness by promoting the transition from the telogen to anagen phase. It effectively reduced androgen receptor protein levels through ubiquitin-dependent degradation, particularly by inhibiting the deubiquitinating enzyme USP10. The study involved 7 mice per group and demonstrated that G-Rf at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg significantly improved hair regrowth compared to controls, with no significant side effects on organ weights or serum testosterone levels. These findings suggest that G-Rf could be a valuable bioactive metabolite for developing functional ingredients in cosmetics and bio-based industries, offering a natural alternative to current AGA treatments with fewer side effects. However, clinical trials are needed to validate these results in humans.