Xiaozhi Yufa decoction ameliorates androgenetic alopecia through inhibition of MAPK signaling and regulation of lipid metabolism.

BACKGROUND

Androgenetic alopecia represents the most common form of progressive hair loss, with current treatments showing limitations in efficacy or tolerability. Xiaozhi Yufa decoction (XZYFD), a Traditional Chinese Medicine formulation composed of 13 herbal medicines, has shown clinical potential in treating hair loss.

METHODS

Network pharmacology analysis identified active compounds and potential targets of XZYFD, with molecular docking evaluating compound-target interactions. A testosterone propionate-induced mouse model was established to assess XZYFD's therapeutic efficacy. Treatment effects were evaluated through hair regrowth assessment, histological examination, serum biochemical analysis, and molecular pathway investigation.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology identified 57 overlapping targets between XZYFD and androgenetic alopecia, with enrichment in MAPK signaling and lipid metabolism pathways. In vivo experiments demonstrated that XZYFD dose-dependently promoted hair regrowth and restored follicular morphology. Treatment significantly improved hormonal profiles, reduced serum lipid levels, and suppressed inflammatory markers. XZYFD effectively inhibited androgen metabolism and suppressed activation of MAPK signaling and SREBP-1-mediated lipid metabolism pathways, as confirmed through gene expression, protein analysis, and immunohistochemistry.

CONCLUSION

XZYFD ameliorates androgenetic alopecia through simultaneous modulation of androgen metabolism, MAPK signaling, and SREBP-1-mediated lipid metabolism, with potential advantages for patients with metabolic dysfunction.