"HIF-1α Stimulators Function Equally to Leading Hair Loss Agents in Enhancing Dermal Papilla Growth
Julia Bukowiecki 1, Dominik Pförringer 2, Dominik Thor 3 4, Dominik Duscher 1 4 5 6, Elizabeth Brett 7 8Affiliations expand
- PMID: 33326985
- DOI: 10.1159/000512123
Abstract
Introduction: Androgenic alopecia (Androgenetic Alopecia) occurs due to progressive miniaturization of the dermal papilla (DP). During this process the hair follicle loses nutrition over time and eventually dies, causing the hair to fall out. Recent evidence suggests that hypoxia-inducible factor-1a (HIF-1α) modulation may counteract hair loss. This study aims to evaluate the proliferation of dermal papilla cells (DPCs) under the influence of a selection of commercially available topical hair loss drugs, compared to HIF-1α-stimulating agents.Materials and methods: Using the hanging drop method, DPCs self-organized into spheroid shape, mirroring the three-dimensional (3D) structure of the DP in vivo. DP analogs were treated with established substances against Androgenetic Alopecia (minoxidil and caffeine) compared to HIF-1α-stimulating agents (deferoxamine [DFO] and deferiprone [DFP]), at 10 mM doses. DP analogs were simultaneously stained with 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) to evaluate impact of drug compounds on DP daughter cell production. Concurrently, fluorescent microscopy visualization of migration of daughter cells after 48 h in culture was performed.
Results: DPC proliferation within the spheroid structure was significantly enhanced by caffeine, minoxidil, and the HIF-1α-stimulating agent DFP when compared to control. Highest proliferation was seen in the DFP-treated DP analogs. Migration of peripheral DP daughter cells was highest in control and DFO groups.
Conclusion: Here we demonstrate a significantly enhanced proliferative activity for both established substances against Androgenetic Alopecia (minoxidil and caffeine) and the HIF-1α-stimulating agent DFP in a 3D DPC spheroid culture model with equal results for DFP and minoxidil. These favorable characteristics make such compounds potential water-soluble alternatives to minoxidil."
Reads as though Deferiprone and Deferoxamine (combined?) performed equally to minoxidil and Caffeine in a topical formulation. These are iron chelating agents used in Haemochromatosis - seems like one would have to be careful experimenting with them? But being water soluble can they be applied directly to the scalp?
