MLPH-Mediated Activation of Dermal Papilla IGF-1 Signaling Drives Human Hair Shaft Elongation and Anagen Induction

February 2026 in “ Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy ”

Mi Hee Kwack, Eunho Kang, Jewoo Kim, Youngheum Ji, Hyeonchang Ju, Chang‐Hun Lee, Young Kwan Sung, So Yeon Kim, Cheil Moon

MLPH dermal papilla IGF-1 signaling EPO-derived peptides IGF-1 expression EPOR-mediated ERK/AKT activation anagen induction hair shaft elongation insulin-like growth factor 1 erythropoietin receptor epidermal growth factor receptor anagen phase

TLDR MLPH helps hair grow by activating IGF-1 signaling in hair cells.

The study investigates the role of MLPH-mediated activation of dermal papilla IGF-1 signaling in promoting hair growth. Researchers developed EPO-derived peptides that activate dermal papilla cells, increasing IGF-1 expression without causing systemic erythropoietic effects. The peptides enhanced DP-cell metabolic activity, proliferation, and IGF-1 production through EPOR-mediated ERK/AKT activation, leading to hair shaft elongation in vitro and anagen induction in mice. These results suggest that MLPH promotes hair growth via an EPOR-linked, IGF-1-dependent mechanism, highlighting its potential for future therapeutic applications in hair loss treatment.

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