Minoxidil Increases 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase and 5α-Reductase Activity in Cultured Human Dermal Papilla Cells from Balding Scalp

    February 1999 in “ Journal of Dermatological Science
    Toshihiro Sato, Taketsugu Tadokoro, Tadashige Sonoda, Yuji Asada, Satoshi Itami, Susumu Takayasu
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    TLDR Minoxidil boosts enzymes that help hair growth.
    The study found that minoxidil increases the activity of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 5α-reductase in human dermal papilla cells from balding scalp. These enzymes are involved in the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which is known to contribute to hair loss. The study suggests that minoxidil may work by increasing the activity of these enzymes, leading to increased hair growth. The study was conducted on cultured human dermal papilla cells from balding scalp, and further research is needed to clarify the role of 5α-reductase in male pattern baldness and whether the effect of minoxidil on testosterone metabolism is related to its therapeutic effect.
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