Hair Growth Effects of Laminaria Japonica Extract and Growth Factor Mixture on a C57BL/6 Mouse Model

In the 2016 study, researchers evaluated the hair growth effects of Laminaria japonica extract alone and in combination with growth factors IGF-1 and VEGF on a C57BL/6 mouse model. The study found that the group treated with L. japonica extract and IGF-1 had the most significant improvements in hair re-growth, follicle width, and length compared to control groups. Additionally, this combination led to increased IGF-1 gene expression and decreased TGF-ß gene expression, suggesting potential benefits for hair follicle strengthening and hair growth promotion. The study concluded that L. japonica extract mixed with IGF-1 could be a potential treatment for alopecia, but highlighted the necessity for clinical trials to confirm efficacy and assess side effects. The experiments involved groups of four to six mice each.