Human Hair Follicles Contain Two Forms of ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channels, Only One Sensitive to Minoxidil

    February 2008 in “ The FASEB Journal ”
    Katie Shorter, Nilofer Farjo, Steven M. Picksley, Valerie A. Randall
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    TLDR One minoxidil-sensitive potassium channel exists in human hair follicles.
    This document discusses a study that found human hair follicles contain two forms of ATP-sensitive potassium channels, but only one of them is sensitive to minoxidil, a drug used to treat hair loss. The study suggests that understanding the specific forms of these channels present in hair follicles could lead to the development of more effective hair growth therapies. The study also found that KATP channel blockers, such as tolbutamide, may be able to be harnessed to reduce hair growth, ideally in a topical formulation.
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      community Creatine is the opposite of minoxidil !

      in Research/Science  320 upvotes 3 months ago
      Creatine may counteract minoxidil's hair growth effects by closing potassium ATP channels, potentially leading to hair loss in predisposed individuals. Despite anecdotal reports, there is no conclusive evidence linking creatine to hair loss.
      Can liver problems be associated with response to the oral minoxidil?

      community Can liver problems be associated with response to the oral minoxidil?

      in Research  147 upvotes 2 weeks ago
      Liver problems may reduce the effectiveness of oral minoxidil due to impaired SULT1A1 enzyme activity, which is crucial for converting minoxidil to its active form. This reduction in enzyme function can significantly decrease the drug's effectiveness in promoting hair growth.

      community The mechanism of androgenic alopecia

      in Research/Science  32 upvotes 3 months ago
      DHT may inhibit hair growth by affecting mitochondrial function, leading to hair follicle miniaturization. Treatments like minoxidil and PP405 may promote hair growth by altering metabolic pathways, potentially counteracting DHT's effects.

      community Is this Better Than Topical Minoxidil? Topical Diazoxide

      in Research/Science  6 upvotes 9 months ago
      Topical diazoxide may be a promising hair regrowth treatment, especially for those who don't respond to minoxidil, as it activates potassium channels without needing sulfation. It appears safe for topical use, avoiding systemic effects seen in oral use.

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