July 2022 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” This study found that the cosmetic olfactory receptor agonist cyclohexyl salicylate may stimulate hair growth and expand stem cell progeny, suggesting potential as a cosmetic adjuvant for hair loss.
November 2022 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” This study found that stimulating the olfactory receptor OR2A4/7 with cyclohexyl salicylate promoted human hair growth and increased progeny of hair follicle epithelial stem cells in an ex vivo setting.
June 2025 in “Molecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids” In this study, researchers identified a specific DNA aptamer, Ap.OR2AT4.17, that effectively prolonged hair growth and increased hair shaft elongation in organ-cultured human hair follicles by targeting the olfactory receptor OR2AT4. This finding suggests the aptamer's potential as a novel therapy for hair loss disorders.
May 2020 in “Authorea (Authorea)” This review discusses the diverse functions and therapeutic potential of ectopic olfactory receptors throughout the body, emphasizing their roles in various cellular processes and potential in cancer detection and therapy, but reports no new clinical results.
July 2026 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” ABS-201 may effectively promote hair growth in men by targeting the prolactin receptor.