Minoxidil Sulfate Regulates JAK/STAT Signaling and Mitochondrial Function in Alopecia Areata

This study explores the effects of minoxidil sulfate (MXS) on alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune hair disorder. MXS was found to enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of the JAK inhibitor baricitinib, leading to accelerated hair regrowth in patients. In human outer root sheath cells, MXS improved baricitinib's suppression of STAT1 phosphorylation and IFN-γ-inducible chemokines, while also independently inhibiting STAT1 and STAT3 activation. Additionally, MXS reduced mitochondrial stress and preserved immune privilege-associated features, suggesting its potential as an adjunctive treatment with JAK inhibitors without causing additional systemic immunosuppression.