(7E)-7,8-Dehydroheliobuphthalmin from Platycladus orientalis L.: Isolation, Characterization, and Hair Growth Promotion

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a prevalent form of non-scarring hair loss, affecting approximately 32.13% of the population. Seborrheic alopecia is the most frequently observed among its various types, contributing to over 25% of hair loss cases in men. Identifying effective natural compounds or therapeutic agents that stimulate hair growth remains a key research focus. <i>Platycladus orientalis</i> L., known for its medicinal properties, shows potential in promoting hair darkening and regeneration, although its mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, Fr2 of <i>Platycladus orientalis</i> L. was found to significantly enhance hair growth in mice. Similarly, (7E)-7,8-Dehydroheliobuphthalmin (DHHB) was successfully isolated and purified for the first time through a combination of medium-pressure liquid chromatography and two-dimensional high-performance liquid chromatography. In an alopecia areata (AGA) model using dermal papilla cells (DPCs), DHHB was found to significantly promote cell proliferation and differentiation by down-regulating the expression of androgen receptor (AR) proteins, and activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, as compared with the dihydrotestosterone-induced model group. These results indicate that DHHB is a major bioactive compound in <i>Platycladus orientalis</i> L. and represents a promising candidate for promoting hair growth.