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Updated: Jul 30, 2026
05:28
Targeted Expression of GFP in the Hair Follicle Using Ex Vivo Viral Transduction
Published on: March 17, 2008
Androgen responsive genes as they affect hair growth
M E Sawaya1, R W Keane, U Blume-Peytavi
1ARATEC Research PO Box 7, Ocala, FL 34478, USA. Aratec@worldnet.att.net
European Journal of Dermatology : EJD
|June 12, 2001
Summary
Finasteride treatment normalized caspase expression in androgenetic alopecia (AGA) patients, suggesting dihydrotestosterone (DHT) may increase apoptosis via caspases in AGA. This study clarifies the role of caspases in hair follicle health.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Finasteride effectively treats androgenetic alopecia (AGA) by restoring hair growth.
- Caspases regulate programmed cell death and may influence the hair growth cycle.
- The role of caspases in human hair follicles in AGA is largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze caspase family members (1-10), usurpin, and XIAP in normal scalp and AGA patients.
- To investigate the effect of finasteride treatment on caspase expression in AGA patients.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of caspases 1-10, usurpin, and XIAP in scalp biopsies.
- Comparison between normal scalp, AGA patients, and AGA patients after 6 months of finasteride treatment.
Main Results:
- Caspases 1, 3, 8, and 9 were found in the hair follicle isthmus and infundibulum.
- Expression of these caspases, particularly caspase 3, was higher in AGA patients than in normal controls.
- Finasteride treatment reduced caspase expression in AGA patients to levels similar to normal controls.
Conclusions:
- Caspase 3 is crucial for normal hair homeostasis.
- Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) may upregulate caspases, leading to apoptosis in AGA.
- DHT may selectively regulate caspase genes involved in programmed cell death, impacting the hair growth cycle.
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