Investigations Into the Roles of Potassium Channels in Hair Growth: Studies Confirming the Presence of Several ATP-Sensitive Potassium (K+ATP) Channels in Hair Follicles and Exploring Their Mechanism of Action Using Molecular Biological, Cell Culture, Organ Culture, and Proteomic Approaches

The study investigated the role of ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels in hair growth, focusing on their presence and mechanism in hair follicles. It was found that KATP channels, particularly the SUR2B type, were active in growing (anagen) hair follicles but not in resting ones, highlighting their importance in hair growth. The research used a red deer hair follicle model, which showed similar KATP channel gene expression to human follicles. The study also explored the effects of a selective SUR1 channel opener, NNC55-9216, which stimulated hair growth in organ culture and had enhanced effects when combined with minoxidil. This suggested potential for new treatments targeting SUR1 channels. Additionally, minoxidil was found to alter protein profiles in dermal papilla cells, indicating a need for further research to develop improved hair loss therapies.