Key points from article :
Scientists have regrown hair in a mouse model of hair loss using custom-made plastic microneedles loaded with rapamycin and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
EGCG is an active ingredient in green tea.
Understanding the mechanisms of senescent alopecia and ways to reverse it can provide insights into other aspects of aging.
They used an emerging microneedle technology to deliver drugs directly to the inner layers of the skin.
The microneedles were formed in molds from biocompatible and water-soluble plastic polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).
The needles were then loaded with nanoparticles containing rapamycin and/or EGCG.
Moderate doses of rapamycin are the most effective.
Rapamycin not only stimulates hair regrowth, it can also partially reverse hair graying.
Microneedle-based drug delivery is not limited to hair regeneration, and it can be used for treating various other skin conditions.
The study was published in the National Library of Medicine.
