Platelet Factor 4 Inhibits Human Hair Follicle Growth and Promotes Androgen Receptor Expression in Human Dermal Papilla Cells

September 2020 in “ PeerJ ”

Ke Sha, Mengting Chen, Fangfen Liu, San Xu, Ben Wang, Qinqin Peng, Yiya Zhang, Hongfu Xie, Ji Li, Zhili Deng

Platelet Factor 4 PF4 hair follicle growth androgen receptor AR dermal papilla cells Platelet-rich plasma PRP hair growth-promoting genes

Studysummary This study found that platelet factor 4 in platelet-rich plasma suppresses human hair follicle growth and alters related gene expressions, suggesting potential implications for its use in hair loss treatment.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

In 2020, a study was conducted to investigate the effects of Platelet Factor 4 (PF4), a component of Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), on human hair follicle growth. The study found that PF4 significantly inhibited hair follicle growth and restrained the proliferation of human dermal papilla cells. Additionally, PF4 increased the expression of androgen receptor (AR) in these cells, a factor known to contribute to hair loss disorders. PF4 also affected the expression of several hair growth-promoting genes. These findings suggest that while PRP is a promising treatment for hair loss, its effectiveness might be improved by neutralizing certain components like PF4.

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