Evaluation of hair growth-promoting, anti-inflammatory, and 5α-reductase inhibitory effects of Spirulina extract using in vitro and in vivo models

초록

Hair undergoes cyclic phases of anagen, catagen, and telogen, where the shortening of the anagen phase and the prolongation of the telogen phase contribute to hair loss. The causes of hair loss are categorized into genetic factors, such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) influence, and non-genetic factors, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune responses. The number of patients experiencing hair loss is increasing due to stress, nutritional imbalances, and lifestyle factors. Currently, the only FDA-approved treatments for hair loss are finasteride and minoxidil, both of which have limitations, including reduced efficacy upon discontinuation and side effects such as decreased libido and dermatitis. To address these issues, research on novel hair loss treatments using natural compounds has been actively pursued. Spirulina, a microalga derived from cyanobacteria such as Spirulina maxima, exhibits multiple functional properties, including DHT modulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and immune enhancement. This study analyzed the differences in anti-inflammatory activity and 5-alpha reductase inhibition depending on the extraction method of Spirulina and evaluated its effects on hair growth and cytokine expression through animal experiments. Results showed that the distilled water extract demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory effects, whereas the ethanol extract exhibited stronger 5-alpha reductase inhibition. In vivo experiments confirmed that both extracts promoted hair growth, and PCR analysis revealed a reduction in inflammatory factors and an increase in beta-catenin, a key factor in hair growth.

키워드