A newly published study out of Thailand validates the previously published work of international researchers that identified novel mechanisms and interventions for pattern hair loss that go well beyond the crude, side effect laden usage of anti-androgens (i.e. Propecia, Avodart and Spironolactone) and topical anti-hypertensives, (Minoxidil).
Neurotrophins, including nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived-neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are intimately implicated in human hair growth control. Neurotrophin modulators, as stated in this study, present a novel pharmacologic intervention on pattern hair loss, that have no effects (or resultant side effects) on the hormonal axis.
Fortunately, the inflammation, and resultant hair loss in MPB caused from neurotrophins can be readily neutralized by the combination of Resveratrol and Curcumin. This is accomlished by specifically blocking the CB1 receptor (Cannanbinoid), which is an established regulator of mammalian hair growth.
This study, as in others preceding it, also identifies reduced levels of IGF-1 in balding versus non-balding hair follicles.
It has been established that the oral combination of Soy Isoflavones and Capsaicin promotes hair growth by increasing dermal insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) production through activation of sensory neurons.
Br J Dermatol. 2011 Jul 5. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10514.x. [Epub ahead of print]
Brain-derived nerve factor and neurotrophins in androgenetic alopecia.
Panchaprateep R, Korkij W, Asawanonda P.
Source
Division of Dermatology Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
Abstract
Background: Several growth factors and cytokines have been shown to be involved in normal hair cycling as well as in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, the molecular cascades in AGA downstream from androgen receptor activation are far from being fully elucidated.
Objectives: We sought to determine the difference in the protein expression of growth factors/cytokines in balding vs. nonbalding scalp specimens from the same individuals affected.
Methods: Balding and nonbalding scalp specimens were collected from 4 men with pattern baldness. Dermal papilla (DP) cells were isolated and cultured. Quantifying the protein expressions of growth factors and cytokines expressed by these cells was performed using Quantibody® Human Growth Factor Array-1.
Results: Brain-derived nerve factor (BDNF) protein expression was upregulated by approximately 12-fold in supernatants obtained from balding as compared to nonbalding DP cells (P < 0.001). Expressions of neurotrophin-3 and β-nerve growth factor were also upregulated. On the other hand, protein expressions of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and its binding proteins as well as those of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family were significantly down-regulated in the balding scalp.
Conclusions: Factors, especially BDNF, may be important in mediating the effects of androgens on hair follicles, serving as a negative regulatory control signal. Further studies may lead to novel pharmacologic interventions in AGA.
These “novel” mechanisms and interventions have been already discovered and patented by a team of Italian scientists, with the oral hair loss treatment “Capsures”, which is a combination of Resveratrol and Curcumin.
Italian Patent Details Hair Growth Effects of Resveratrol/Curcumin Combination
As mentioned, the up-regulation of dermal IGF-1 and resultant hair growth can be accomplished by either using Propecia (finasteride) or as shown by Dr. Harada in prior published research, more dramatically with the oral combo of Isoflavones and Capsaicin.