Rotenone, a natural plant extract, may promote hair growth by increasing LDH activity and blocking MPC in the scalp, but it carries risks due to its toxicity. The suggested formulation includes Barbasco extract, DMSO, propylene glycol or PEG-400, ethanol, and a carrier oil.
Blocking the Mitochondrial pyruvate carrier and using aldose reductase inhibitors like Indian gooseberry and berberine may help with hair growth. Magnesium can also be added to increase NADPH.
PP405 is a potential hair loss treatment that inhibits mitochondrial pyruvate carriers, increasing lactate dehydrogenase activity and stimulating hair follicle stem cells. In a phase 1 trial, 31% of participants showed over 20% hair density increase with PP405 treatment.
Hair loss theory suggests imbalance between Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) and Androgen Receptor (AR) activation. Proposed treatment includes upregulating VDR, downregulating AR, and improving mitochondrial health.