TLDR The cell membrane complex in mammalian hair has three distinct types with different structures and chemical properties.
The document reviews the structure, chemistry, and physical properties of the cell membrane complex (CMC) in mammalian hair fibers, emphasizing the differences in the three types of CMC. It builds upon Rogers' initial description of the CMC, presenting new developments that reveal the covalently bound fatty acids of the beta layers are predominantly in the cuticle as monolayers. The beta layers of the cortex are bilayers, attached by ionic and polar linkages to the cortical cell membranes on one side and to the delta layer on the other, but are not covalently bonded. The delta layer, consisting of five sublayers, differs between cortical cells and cuticle cells, with distinct proteins. The cell membranes of cuticle cells are also significantly different from those of cortical cells. The paper presents models with supporting evidence for the three types of CMC: cuticle-cuticle CMC, cuticle-cortex CMC, and cortex-cortex CMC.
A gel of keratin microspheres promotes hair follicle growth, showing similar effectiveness to minoxidil in mice. The treatment activates hair growth pathways and reduces inflammation, with potential applications in drug delivery for hair-related disorders.
MCL-1 protein may help maintain hair follicles in the growth phase and prevent miniaturization. There is interest in experimental treatments like exosomes, peptides, or stem cell serums to upregulate MCL-1 for hair loss, especially for those not using minoxidil or finasteride.
Fatty acid metabolic signaling can activate epithelial stem cells for hair regeneration. Oleic and palmitoleic acids showed the best results, but practical application on humans remains uncertain.
A potential non-invasive topical treatment targeting the WNT Signaling Pathway for hair regeneration is being researched, with positive results on human hair follicle cells. Current effective treatments for hair loss include Minoxidil, finasteride, and hair transplantation.
Keratin microspheres may offer additional mechanisms to combat hair loss compared to minoxidil. The process to create these microspheres is relatively simple and can be done at home with basic equipment.
The conversation discusses using GFM Gel, a topical gel with polypeptides that mimic growth factors to promote hair regrowth and strengthen hair. It also mentions treatments like Minoxidil, finasteride, and RU58841 for hair loss.
