Reconstructing protein conformations to activate follicular enzyme-nutrient reservoirs for reversing follicle aging - PubMed
3 hours ago
- #Protein Conformation
- #Microneedle Therapy
- #Follicle Aging
- Zn2+/Cu2+-dependent proteases, such as LOX and SOD1, are downregulated and have abnormal conformations in degenerative alopecia, weakening follicular support.
- A Zn2+/Cu2+-doped decellularized extracellular matrix microneedle patch (dECMMAZn/Cu) was developed to rapidly restore the follicular microenvironment and enzymatic reservoir.
- The microneedle treatment upregulates key proteases, reduces p16 expression, inhibits cellular senescence, and promotes stem cell proliferation in vitro.
- In an animal model of degenerative alopecia, dECMMAZn/Cu treatment increases hair follicle numbers, improves dermal collagen density, and promotes hair regeneration.
- The study presents an innovative microneedle material that reverses follicle aging by remodeling protein conformations and activating enzymatic reservoirs.