Wei · Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) 2026 · Preclinical in vitro and animal experimental study · n=?

Amphiphilic Covalent Organic Framework for Efficient DHT Adsorption and Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment via Spectral Technology.

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Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data

Preclinical in vitro and animal research with no human clinical data.

PubMed 42654016 · doi:10.3390/molecules31162936 · record verified 2026-08-29

What was done

Researchers designed and synthesized an amphiphilic covalent organic framework (amCOF) combining hydrophilic functional groups and lipophilic alkyl chains to adsorb dihydrotestosterone (DHT). They evaluated its DHT adsorption kinetics, capacity, and dispersion in physiological media. In vitro functional assays assessed the ability of amCOF to counteract DHT-induced inhibition of human dermal papilla cell proliferation and migration. In vivo effects on local DHT concentration, hair regrowth, and biosafety were evaluated following topical application in animal models.

What was found

The abstract reports no numerical values, baseline metrics, or effect sizes. Qualitatively, amCOF demonstrated rapid DHT adsorption kinetics, high removal efficiency, and reversed DHT-induced inhibition of human dermal papilla cell proliferation and migration in vitro. In animal models, topical application reduced local DHT levels, promoted hair regrowth, and showed a favorable biosafety profile.

Why it matters

This study introduces a material-based scavenging approach to androgenetic alopecia by physically capturing pathogenic DHT within the hair follicle microenvironment, presenting an alternative to traditional systemic pharmaceuticals.

Limits

The abstract provides no numerical data, sample sizes, or animal model specifications. Findings are restricted to preclinical in vitro and animal models, and clinical efficacy, optimal human dosing, and long-term safety remain unverified.

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