Enzymology of the Hair Follicle

August 2001 in “ PubMed ”

Rolf Hoffmann

androgenetic alopecia androgens hair follicles androgen metabolism steroidogenic enzymes dermal papilla type 2 5a-reductase 3b-HSD steroid sulfatase AGA male pattern baldness female pattern baldness 5-alpha reductase 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase

TLDR Hair follicles convert androgens, affecting hair loss patterns.

The review discussed androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common type of hair loss in men and women, which follows a specific pattern in genetically predisposed individuals. Although the exact genes involved were unknown, the hormonal effects on hair growth were better understood. Human hair follicles were identified as targets for androgens and exhibited active androgen metabolism, capable of converting several androgens through various steroidogenic enzymes. The dermal papilla of the hair follicle showed significant activity of type 2 5a-reductase, 3b-HSD, and steroid sulfatase. The review highlighted the importance of understanding androgen metabolism in hair follicles for developing future therapeutic approaches.

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