Autophagy Dysfunction: The Kernel of Hair Loss?

Xiaofan Jin,1 Xiuzu Song2 1Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Xiuzu Song, Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People’s Hospital, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Westlake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People’s Republic of China, Email songxiuzu@sina.comAbstract: Autophagy is recognized as a crucial regulatory process, instrumental in the removal of senescent, dysfunctional, and damaged cells. Within the autophagic process, lysosomal digestion plays a critical role in the elimination of impaired organelles, thus preserving fundamental cellular metabolic functions and various biological processes. Mitophagy, a targeted autophagic process that specifically focuses on mitochondria, is essential for sustaining cellular health and energy balance. Therefore, a deep comprehension of the operational mechanisms and implications of autophagy and mitophagy is vital for disease prevention and treatment. In this context, we examine the role of autophagy and mitophagy during hair follicle cycles, closely scrutinizing their potential association with hair loss. We also conduct a thorough review of the regulatory mechanisms behind autophagy and mitophagy, highlighting their interaction with hair follicle stem cells and dermal papilla cells. In conclusion, we investigate the potential of manipulating autophagy and mitophagy pathways to develop innovative therapeutic strategies for hair loss.Keywords: hair follicle, mitophagy, dermal papilla cell, hair follicle stem cell, alopecia