Preliminary outcome of enhancing hair regeneration through macrophage polarization in mice model: The therapeutic potential of cuban oregano

Summary: Abstract Body: Hair loss has become a significant concern, with recent studies highlighting the vital role of M2 macrophages in tissue repair and hair regeneration. In our study, we evaluates the preliminary outcome of cuban oregano extract in promoting hair regeneration by enhancing macrophage polarization. A preclinical model using 33-week-old male and 7-week-old male C57BL/6 mice and different ages mice were divided into two treatment groups which receiving topical applications of the herbal extract compared to control group. Hair density and follicle condition were observed via dermoscope, with quantitative analysis conducted using Image J software. In 33-week-old mice, the treated groups showed significant improvement in hair growth in treated groups compared to control group, with higher dosage group demonstrating the highest efficacy (Day 13 hair density: 99.15 vs. 93.20% in the lower dosage group and 92.76% in controls). In 7-week-old mice also observed similar result as above. We hypothesize that the mechanism is attributed to enhanced M1/M2 macrophage polarization, increased secretion of growth factors, and activation of dermal papillae. These findings suggest that the mechanism of increasing M2 macrophages through cuban oregano can effectively enhance hair growth, offering a novel therapeutic approach for hair loss. Further research will need to investigate the underlying molecular pathways and explore clinical applications for patients with hair loss conditions. Audry Yun Xuan Chan¹, Chang Cheng Chang^{2, 1, 3}, Tzong-Yuan Juang³ 1. China Medical University College of Medicine, Taichung City, Taichung City, Taiwan. 2. Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taichung City, Taiwan. 3. Department of Cosmeceutics, China Medical University, Taichung, Taichung City, Taiwan. Stem Cell Biology, Tissue Regeneration and Wound Healing