Physcion, a Novel Inhibitor of 5α-Reductase That Promotes Hair Growth In Vitro and In Vivo

The study identified Physcion, a compound from Polygonum multiflorum, as a potent inhibitor of 5α-reductase, an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which is a causative factor in androgenic alopecia (AGA). Through high-performance liquid chromatography, Physcion was shown to inhibit 5α-reductase effectively. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that Physcion could shorten the time for hair growth, improve hair follicle morphology, and increase hair follicle count by inhibiting 5α-reductase expression. Molecular docking studies further confirmed the binding energy and interactions between Physcion and 5α-reductase type II. These findings suggested that Physcion could be a promising natural treatment for AGA.