A novel and safe small molecule enhances hair follicle regeneration by facilitating metabolic reprogramming

Stem cells: A remedy to revitalize the roots A compound that establishes metabolic conditions favorable for sustaining stem cells may also offer a safe drug for promoting hair regrowth. Drugs that inhibit mitochondrial activity help lock stem cells into a pluripotent state that allows them to actively divide and repair various tissues, but many of these drugs are toxic. Researchers led by Myung Jin Son of the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon and ImmunoMet, USA have identified a new compound that safely achieves the same effect. This potential drug helped promote stemness in diverse stem cell types, including the highly proliferative cells that comprise hair follicles. Topical application proved more effective at promoting hair regrowth in female mice than the baldness drug minoxidil, and matched its performance in males, demonstrating its potency as a stem cell modulator.