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Spermidine/spermine-N(1)-acetyltransferase (SSAT) was identified as a crucial enzyme regulating cellular polyamine content, impacting normal and neoplastic growth, ion channel regulation, and potentially cancer chemotherapy. SSAT activity was highly regulated and could be induced by various stimuli, affecting polyamine homeostasis and linking polyamine metabolism to lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. Increased SSAT activity led to a futile cycle consuming ATP and acetyl-CoA, and was associated with adverse effects such as pancreatic cell death, tissue growth blockage, behavioral changes, and hair loss. SSAT also interacted with proteins like hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha and NF-kappaB, though the exact mechanisms were unclear. While SSAT was considered a potential target for diseases beyond cancer, its broad physiological effects necessitated careful targeting to avoid toxicity.

This study investigated the role of amino acids in human hair follicles, focusing on cysteine and arginine. It found that both amino acids were essential for hair growth and protein synthesis. Cysteine influenced hair fiber diameter, with reduced supply leading to thinner fibers and slower growth. Hair follicles utilized the amino acid transporter ASC for cysteine uptake, while arginine was primarily incorporated into proteins in the hair root sheaths and fibers. Arginine also affected energy metabolism, as its availability influenced lactate production. The study noted that hair follicles did not express certain peptide transporters and suggested a slower mechanism for glutamate transport compared to other amino acids.