madman
Super Moderator
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common nonscarring alopecia and is characterised by distinct gradual patterned hair loss. AGA is mediated by genetic predisposition and excessive follicular sensitivity to androgens, mainly in males, leading to the progressive conversion of scalp terminal hair into vellus hair. Although highly prevalent, it is not fatal but may have a severe psychosocial impact, especially on females and younger males. Significant advances have been made in understanding AGA’s epidemiology and pathophysiology, but only 2 drugs remain approved by the FDA - finasteride and minoxidil. Prolonged use of these drugs, is a prerequisite for enhanced treatment response. However, this leads to poor medication adherence and adverse effects from extended use eg, the ‘‘post finasteride syndrome’’ which persists beyond stopping the drug. Hence, there is a need for research on more effective alternative treatments for AGA, with fewer side effects.
This paper reviewed recent advances in AGA pathophysiology and its treatment options. The recently characterized structure of type 2, 5-alpha reductase holds significance in comprehending present and prospective treatments of AGA.
AGA ETIOLOGY
*Androgens and androgen receptors
*The role of genetics
*The role of steroid 5-alpha reductase (SRD5A) enzyme
AGA MANAGEMENT
*Diagnosis
*Treatment
*Finasteride
*Minoxidil
*Laser therapy
*Hair transplantation
None FDA-approved AGA treatments
*Off-label medications and hormonal therapies
*Phytomedicine
*Injectables
*Exosomes
*Adjuvant therapy
*Camouflage techniques
FUTURE PROSPECTS
The discovery of SRD5A2’s structure (Fig 5) in2020 has opened new possibilities for developing more effective AGA treatments. Understanding its function and interactions allows researchers to identify drug targets and design drugs specifically targeting the protein. This breakthrough has the potential to enhance drug efficacy and safety. It also has implications for treating other diseases. The discovery represents a milestone in AGA treatment and promises a brighter future for patients.
NEW TREATMENTS
New insights into AGA’s pathogenesis have led to new research prospects. Promising treatments are being developed, including clascoterone, an FDA approved topical androgen receptor inhibitor initially used for acne. Recent studies indicate clascoterone’s potential effectiveness in treating AGA.81 Patients treated with clascoterone 7.5% twice daily for 6 months experienced reduced hair loss and improvement compared to the placebo group and their baseline.82,83
Other upcoming treatments for AGA include Janus kinase inhibitors, which block the immune system response causing hair loss, and stem cell therapies that stimulate hair growth.
CONCLUSION
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) poses significant challenges for individuals, particularly among younger males, females, and those seeking treatment. Although limited treatment options currently exist, ongoing research and expanding knowledge about its underlying mechanisms and potential interventions offer hope for improving outcomes for those affected by this condition. As we continue to learn more about AGA and the structure of SRD5A2, we can work toward developing better targeted approaches to managing and treating this common and distressing condition.
This paper reviewed recent advances in AGA pathophysiology and its treatment options. The recently characterized structure of type 2, 5-alpha reductase holds significance in comprehending present and prospective treatments of AGA.
AGA ETIOLOGY
*Androgens and androgen receptors
*The role of genetics
*The role of steroid 5-alpha reductase (SRD5A) enzyme
AGA MANAGEMENT
*Diagnosis
*Treatment
*Finasteride
*Minoxidil
*Laser therapy
*Hair transplantation
None FDA-approved AGA treatments
*Off-label medications and hormonal therapies
*Phytomedicine
*Injectables
*Exosomes
*Adjuvant therapy
*Camouflage techniques
FUTURE PROSPECTS
The discovery of SRD5A2’s structure (Fig 5) in2020 has opened new possibilities for developing more effective AGA treatments. Understanding its function and interactions allows researchers to identify drug targets and design drugs specifically targeting the protein. This breakthrough has the potential to enhance drug efficacy and safety. It also has implications for treating other diseases. The discovery represents a milestone in AGA treatment and promises a brighter future for patients.
NEW TREATMENTS
New insights into AGA’s pathogenesis have led to new research prospects. Promising treatments are being developed, including clascoterone, an FDA approved topical androgen receptor inhibitor initially used for acne. Recent studies indicate clascoterone’s potential effectiveness in treating AGA.81 Patients treated with clascoterone 7.5% twice daily for 6 months experienced reduced hair loss and improvement compared to the placebo group and their baseline.82,83
Other upcoming treatments for AGA include Janus kinase inhibitors, which block the immune system response causing hair loss, and stem cell therapies that stimulate hair growth.
CONCLUSION
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) poses significant challenges for individuals, particularly among younger males, females, and those seeking treatment. Although limited treatment options currently exist, ongoing research and expanding knowledge about its underlying mechanisms and potential interventions offer hope for improving outcomes for those affected by this condition. As we continue to learn more about AGA and the structure of SRD5A2, we can work toward developing better targeted approaches to managing and treating this common and distressing condition.
