Chia Seed Polysaccharide-Based Self-Assembled Microencapsulation Enhances Hair Regeneration by Inducing Glycolysis and Autophagy

Abstract

Effective strategies for hair regeneration and maintenance focus on enhancing the hair growth cycle by expediting the transition from the telogen to anagen phases, extending the growth phase, and delaying the onset of the catagen phase. These measures ultimately improve hair density, vitality, and overall health. This study introduces a chia seed polysaccharide-based microencapsulation (CSMi) cream as a promising non-invasive approach for hair regeneration and maintenance through the stimulation of glycolysis and autophagy. The innovative formulation, derived from chia seed mucilage polysaccharides and oil, shows significant potential in promoting hair follicle (HF) neogenesis, as demonstrated in a hair removal mouse model. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis revealed that the CSMi cream influences cellular metabolism toward glycolytic pathways and modulating autophagy levels, the cream facilitates the telogen-to-anagen transition, extends the anagen phase, and delays the onset of catagen. These findings provide compelling evidence for the CSMi cream as a potential therapeutic option for treating hair loss, offering a safe and effective alternative to existing solutions in trichology.