Isoalantolactone (ISA) Stimulates Hair Cell Growth Through Activation of the WNT/β-catenin and Ras/MAPK Pathways

Hair loss is a significant concern in modern society, often leading to psychological stress and low self-esteem. This study explores the potential of isoalantolactone (ISA), a natural compound, as a preventive and therapeutic agent for hair loss. ISA activates the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in hair follicle regeneration and growth, and promotes the proliferation of hHDFP cells. Additionally, ISA enhances hair cell growth by upregulating Erk1/2, a key component of the RAS/MAPK pathway, and indirectly prevents β-catenin degradation by regulating WNT signaling, thereby accelerating early hair growth. In a C57BL/6 mouse model, ISA administration significantly improved hair growth and increased hair thickness compared to the control group. These findings suggest that ISA may serve as a promising novel treatment for hair loss by stimulating hair growth.