Leek-Derived Exosome-like Nanoparticles Inhibit Hair Growth by Controlling the Differentiation Fate of Hair Follicle Stem Cells.

With the changing pace of life and increasing environmental pressures, the prevalence of hirsutism has increased. Hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) are the starting factor and the key factor in hair follicle regeneration. In this study, we conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments to systematically examine the effects of exosome-like nanoparticles derived from leeks (LELNs) on the proliferation and differentiation of HFSCs and the underlying molecular mechanisms. LELNs promoted the proliferation and migration of HFSCs and improved their endogenous antioxidant and antibacterial capacities. In addition, LELNs inhibited the expression of NLRP3 protein in the classical pathway of HFSCs and exerted anti-inflammatory effects, which reduced the release of inflammatory factors. Furthermore, these particles inhibited hair maturation in rat models by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and triggering HFSC differentiation into sebaceous gland cells. In conclusion, this study highlights LELNs altering HFSC differentiation direction by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the potential therapeutic efficacy of LELNs in managing hirsutism.