Mechanism of Action of Minoxidil in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia Is Likely Mediated by Mitochondrial Adenosine Triphosphate Synthase-Induced Stem Cell Differentiation

The study proposed that the mechanism by which minoxidil treats androgenetic alopecia is likely mediated by mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase-induced stem cell differentiation. Minoxidil was shown to increase intracellular Ca2+ levels, which up-regulates ATP synthase. This enzyme, beyond its role in ATP synthesis, promotes stem cell differentiation. This differentiation is crucial for re-entering the anagen phase of hair growth, which is shortened in androgenetic alopecia. The findings suggested that minoxidil-induced Ca2+ influx could be a key factor in promoting hair growth, providing a basis for developing new treatments for androgenetic alopecia.