Examining the Effect of Notocactus ottonis Cold Vacuum Isolated Cell Extract on Hair Growth

The biological and psychological importance of hair is recognized worldwide. Molecules that can promote the activation of hair follicle stem cells and initiation of the growth phase have been the subject of much research. Clarifying how hair regeneration is regulated may help to provide hair loss treatments, including cosmetic and even psychological interventions. This study focuses on the hair-growing effects of a cell extract (CE) obtained from the cactus Notocactus ottonis by a cold vacuum extraction protocol, with the aim of investigating its hair-growing effects and relevant mechanisms and potential factors therein. In an experiment using female C57BL/6 mice, a vehicle control group (VC: propylene glycol : ethanol : water), a positive control group (MXD : 3% minoxidil), and an experimental group (N-CE: 10% Notocactus ottonis CE) were applied topically to the backs of mice. Results showed that 3% MXD and 10% N-CE were more effective in promoting hair growth than the VC. Furthermore, an increase in the number of hair follicles was observed with 10% N-CE CE in hematoxylin-eosin-stained skin tissue. We also examined the metabolite composition of the N-CE. Additionally, the whole genome DNA microarray and total protein profiling was carried out on the skin samples to suggest molecular factors underlying the hair-promoting effects of N-CE. This study raises the possibility of using the newly described Notocactus ottonis cell extract as a hair-growth promoting agent.