What's the deal with verteporfin?

Research/Science 11/25/2023

A human trial involving the use of Verteporfin as a treatment for hair loss, which has been ongoing for 119 days with an update on its progress. Treatments such as Minoxidil, Finasteride and RU58841 have also been discussed.

The post and conversation discuss Verteporfin's potential as a hair loss treatment. It's shown promise in regrowing hair after transplants and might be effective with microneedling.

Clinical studies by Dr. Barghouthi and Dr. Bloxham indicate that Verteporfin, when used with FUE and FUT hair transplantation methods, shows promise in hair follicle regeneration and minimal scarring due to its ability to inhibit Yes-associated protein (YAP). Microneedling at depths of 3-3.5mm, combined with Verteporfin, could potentially reactivate dormant follicles, although the optimal dosage and application method are still under investigation. Concerns remain about the DHT sensitivity of regenerated follicles, highlighting the need for further research to optimize trauma levels and Verteporfin concentrations to achieve effective and scar-free hair regeneration.

Hair cloning is seen as a distant and potentially less relevant solution for hair loss due to its high cost, invasiveness, and the advancement of other treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride. Many believe that by the time hair cloning becomes viable, other less invasive and more effective treatments will be available.

Peptides like TB500, KPV, GHK-CU, and BPC-157 are overhyped for hair growth with limited proven effectiveness in humans. Combining peptides with delivery methods like iontophoresis and sonophoresis shows promise, but many claims remain unproven.