Hemp Seed-Derived Exosomes Protect Against Dihydrotestosterone-Induced Chicken Feather Growth Inhibition

August 2025 in “ Pharmaceuticals ”

Hwapyung Kim, Gyung Whan Kim, Nam-Soo Kim, Boyong Kim

hemp seed-derived exosomes dihydrotestosterone DHT Wnt/β-catenin Sonic Hedgehog SHH alopecia feather growth inhibition follicle regeneration hemp seed exosomes

TLDR Hemp seed-derived exosomes help restore feather growth in chickens affected by DHT.

The study explores the protective effects of hemp seed-derived exosomes (E40) against dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced inhibition of feather growth in chicken embryos, a model for alopecia. DHT typically suppresses pathways like Wnt/β-catenin and Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), leading to reduced feather growth. E40 was found to restore feather length and density, enhance the expression of key signaling molecules, and reduce inhibitory signals, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic strategy for managing alopecia. The study highlights E40's ability to counteract DHT-induced stress and promote follicle regeneration, though further research in mammalian models is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.

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