Korean Scientists Develop Side-Effect-Free Hair Loss Treatment

Korean researchers have developed a new hair loss treatment compound that reduces side effects while maintaining efficacy, offering hope to millions suffering from hair loss.

According to academic sources on May 20, a research team led by Professors Moon Je-il, Kim So-yeon, and Lee Chang-hoon at Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), in collaboration with Professor Sung Young-kwan's team at Kyungpook National University Medical School, developed a novel peptide called "MLPH" that promotes hair growth using computer modeling.

The research directly targets limitations of existing hair loss treatments. Currently, the only FDA-approved treatments are minoxidil and finasteride. Minoxidil causes skin irritation, while finasteride has been linked to sexual dysfunction and is restricted for use by women.

The researchers focused on erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that aids red blood cell production. While EPO stimulates hair follicle cells to promote hair growth, direct use causes serious side effects including excessive red blood cell production.

Using computer-based structural analysis, the team designed the new peptide MLPH by removing the components that cause side effects while preserving only the hair growth function.

"Minoxidil-Level Efficacy Without Side Effects"

Testing confirmed the compound's effectiveness. MLPH significantly increased secretion of IGF-1, a key hair growth factor, in human hair follicle tissue and animal experiments. It successfully reactivated dormant "telogen phase" follicles into the growth stage.

Hair growth effects were comparable to minoxidil, but no hematopoietic side effects such as increased red blood cell production were observed.

The research team believes the compound could develop into a next-generation hair loss treatment suitable for both men and women. Professor Moon Je-il stated, "This is a new approach that can overcome both the hormonal side effects and gender restrictions of existing drugs."

Market Potential: "Could This Be a Game Changer?"

Market potential is substantial. The global hair loss population is estimated at approximately 1 billion, with about 10 million in Korea alone. The global hair loss treatment market is projected to reach approximately 58 trillion won by 2028.

The research demonstrates the possibility of developing effective treatments without side effects. If this leads to new drug development, significant economic impact is anticipated.

The findings were published in the international journal Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy.