Robust Metformin Nanosystem Promotes Hair Growth In Androgenetic Alopecia

June 2025 in “ Research ”

Qiuying Mai, Weisen Lin, Xiaoyu Qin, Guowang Cheng, Chen Wang, Guang‐Tao Yu, Tongkai Chen

metformin androgenetic alopecia transdermal delivery system PEGylated black phosphorus nanosheets BP-PEG-Met minoxidil finasteride oxidative stress angiogenesis VEGF CD31 AGA PEG vascular endothelial growth factor

TLDR A new metformin-based treatment may effectively promote hair growth with fewer side effects.

The study explores a novel treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) using a transdermal delivery system combining metformin (Met) with PEGylated black phosphorus nanosheets (BP-PEG-Met). This system addresses the limitations of current AGA treatments, such as minoxidil and finasteride, which have significant side effects. BP-PEG-Met enhances hair regeneration by reducing oxidative stress and promoting angiogenesis around hair follicles, as evidenced by increased expression of VEGF and CD31. The study suggests that BP-PEG-Met is a promising multifunctional tool for treating alopecia with fewer side effects compared to existing treatments.

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