Hormonal Interaction And Hair Growth

The review discussed androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common form of hair loss in both men and women, characterized by a pattern of hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals. It was identified as a dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-dependent process involving the miniaturization of hair follicles. The study highlighted the role of local androgen metabolism in the hair follicle, particularly the conversion of weak androgens to more potent ones like testosterone (T) and DHT. The dermal papilla was noted for its central role in hair growth regulation, with various steroidogenic enzymes potentially serving as pharmaceutical targets for treating AGA or hirsutism. Despite advancements in understanding hormonal effects on hair growth, the molecular steps differentiating androgen-dependent beard growth from hair loss remained unclear.