Topical Inhibition of the Electron Transport Chain Can Stimulate the Hair Cycle

    October 2017 in “ Journal of Investigative Dermatology ”
    Matilde Miranda, Heather R. Christofk, D. Leanne Jones, William E. Lowry
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    TLDR Applying certain inhibitors to the skin can promote hair growth without harming cells.
    The study by Miranda, Christofk, Jones, and Lowry demonstrated that topical application of electron transport chain (ETC) inhibitors (Phenformin, Rotenone, and Antimycin A) on mice can stimulate hair cycle activation, as evidenced by visible pigmentation and hair growth, without causing significant cell toxicity. Histological analysis confirmed a normal transition from the resting phase (telogen) to the growth phase (anagen) in hair follicles, and increased lactate production was observed, which is known to promote hair cycle activation. The treatment was also effective in aged mice, suggesting its potential for treating hair loss. The study involved 13 vehicle-treated and 9 Phenformin-treated male mice, and statistical significance was determined using a student's t-test with P < 0.05.
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