Borate-modified recombinant type XVII collagen microneedles loaded with IGF-1 for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the preeminent form of clinical hair loss, poses a significant challenge to patients. Growth factors (GFs) have been investigated for the treatment of hair loss. However, the issue of their optimal intra-dermal delivery remains a formidable obstacle. Type XVII collagen (COL17), which plays a crucial role in regulating the hair follicle aging process, has emerged as a highly promising candidate for hair loss treatment. Considering these constraints, we developed an IGF-1 loaded borate-modified rhCOL17 MN platform (I-mCOL17 MNs) for the treatment of AGA. The mCOL17 MNs are engineered to precisely control the release of bioactive payloads in response to dynamic changes in the microenvironment. A comprehensive investigation was conducted to verify the physicochemical characteristics, as well as the in vitro and in vivo biological activities of the MNs. Our findings demonstrate that, when contrasted with the clinically utilized drug minoxidil, our MN exhibits a remarkable capacity to enhance neovascularization, alleviate tissue-based inflammatory responses, and promote hair regeneration in murine models of AGA. Overall, this MN represents a novel, safer, and more efficient strategy for the treatment of AGA, offering new hope for patients suffering from this prevalent condition.