ISX9, a Small Molecule Targeting Axin, Activates Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling and Promotes Hair Regrowth

The study identified ISX9 as a novel activator of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, crucial for hair growth and regeneration. ISX9 targeted Axin1, enhancing its interaction with LRP6, leading to β-catenin stabilization and upregulation of Wnt target genes. This activation promoted hair regrowth in C57BL/6J mice by inducing hair follicle transition from telogen to anagen. ISX9 was shown to be a promising therapeutic agent for alopecia treatment, offering a potential alternative to existing treatments like minoxidil and finasteride, with significant hair regrowth effects and without causing skin abnormalities.