The Pathogenesis and Treatment Progress of Androgenic Alopecia

Androgenic alopecia (AGA) affects over 50% of the population and involves hair follicle miniaturization linked to genetic factors, androgen metabolism, and stress. Current treatments like minoxidil and 5α-reductase inhibitors have limitations. Recent research emphasizes the Wnt/β-catenin pathway's role in hair growth, identifying WNT10A and APCDDI as susceptibility loci. New treatments under investigation include MSC-derived exosomes and targeted drugs. The study highlights WNT3 overexpression and miR-221 as key factors, suggesting miR-221 and IGF-1 as potential therapeutic targets. Future treatments may focus on reactivating hair follicle stem cells and improving drug delivery methods.