TLDR Topical PROTACs show promise for treating skin conditions but need better stability and delivery methods.
The document explores the potential of PROTACs (proteolysis-targeting chimeras) for topical delivery, particularly in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and other skin conditions. PROTACs offer a novel approach by degrading disease-relevant proteins, but face challenges like systemic toxicity and poor pharmacokinetics. Topical administration can mitigate these issues by localizing treatment and reducing systemic exposure. The development of microneedle technology enhances skin penetration of PROTACs, with promising preclinical results for hair regrowth. Clinical trials for PROTACs targeting androgen receptors for AGA and acne show potential for effective and safe topical treatments. The document also discusses PROTACs for atopic dermatitis and pigmentary disorders, highlighting their advantages in minimizing systemic side effects and enhancing treatment efficacy. Challenges remain in drug delivery, stability, and skin permeability, but innovative delivery systems like microneedles offer promising solutions.
December 2024 in “Journal of Medicinal Chemistry” A new topical treatment for hair loss shows promise by targeting androgen receptors.
September 2024 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” AH-001 could be a safer and more effective treatment for hair loss.
June 2024 in “Journal of medicinal chemistry” A new AI-driven method shows promise for treating hair loss with a peptide-based drug.
There are many treatments for common hair loss, but more trials are needed to decide which are best.
December 2022 in “Small methods” A new hair loss treatment using dissolving microneedles was found to speed up hair growth and was more effective than daily use of common hair growth drugs.
27 citations
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October 2020 in “Drugs” Clascoterone cream was approved in the USA for treating acne in people aged 12 and older.
174 citations
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November 2002 in “Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine” Hair loss needs more research for better treatments.
February 2024 in “Cancers” New treatments targeting androgen receptors show promise for drug-resistant prostate cancer.
10 citations
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July 2022 in “Journal of Medicinal Chemistry” Adding a second method to PROTACs could improve cancer treatment.
December 2022 in “Small methods” A new hair loss treatment using dissolving microneedles was found to speed up hair growth and was more effective than daily use of common hair growth drugs.
December 2025 in “Cosmetics” New treatments for alopecia show promise in restoring hair growth by targeting immune and hormonal factors.
August 2025 in “Plastic and Aesthetic Research” Microneedling can effectively treat hair loss and works well with other treatments, but more research is needed.
