Molecular Mechanisms of Androgenetic Alopecia

August 2002 in “ Experimental Gerontology ”

Ralph M. Trüeb

androgenetic alopecia dihydrotestosterone androgen receptor miniaturization of hair follicles weak androgens 5alpha-reductase androgen inactivating enzymes oral finasteride topical minoxidil AGA DHT AR Propecia Rogaine

TLDR AGA causes hair loss by shrinking hair follicles due to DHT binding, and can be treated with finasteride and minoxidil.

This article from 20 years ago discusses the molecular mechanisms of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), a hereditary and androgen-dependent hair loss condition that affects both men and women. AGA is caused by the binding of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to the androgen receptor (AR), which leads to the miniaturization of hair follicles. The article also discusses the role of weak androgens, 5alpha-reductase, and androgen inactivating enzymes in the development of AGA. The article suggests that current available treatment modalities with proven efficacy are oral finasteride and topical minoxidil.

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