PhD Juntendo University School of Medicine Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Abstract: The ex vivo cultured mononuclear cells (MNC-QQ cells), developed in our laboratory, are a highly functional cell population derived from small amount of peripheral blood after approximately one week of culture. These cells exhibit exceptional angiogenic, antifibrotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. In a phase 1/2 clinical study on patients with refractory limb ulcers, MNC-QQ cells demonstrated a certain degree of efficacy and safety. Alopecia, characterized by a shortened anagen phase of the hair cycle and an increased number of hair follicles remaining in the telogen phase, is linked to reduced blood flow around hair follicles. To examine whether the angiogenic properties of MNC-QQ cells are effective in treating alopecia, preclinical and clinical studies were conducted. In preclinical experiment using mice, dermal papilla cells, and keratinocytes MNC-QQ cells’ efficacy in promoting hair regeneration was evaluated. In an ulcer mouse model, MNC-QQ cell-treated groups exhibited a significant increase in blood vessel numbers within scar tissue, along with evidence of hair follicle regeneration. Moreover, results from in vitro experiments indicated that MNC-QQ cells directly promoted the elongation of hair follicles. In collaboration with Tokyo Skin Clinic and Plastic Surgery, Houju Medical Corporation, and Juntendo University’s Department of Regenerative Therapy, a phase 1/2 clinical trial was conducted on six patients with alopecia. MNC-QQ cells were manufactured from the patients’ peripheral blood and subcutaneously injected into the scalp, with safety and efficacy evaluated over a six-month period. No adverse events were reported in any patients, and improvements in scalp findings and quality of life were observed. These findings suggest that MNC-QQ cells promote hair regeneration not only by improving blood flow around hair follicles but also through direct action on the follicles themselves, demonstrating their potential as a treatment for alopecia. Further research is underway to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of these effects.
Funding Source: This work was supported in part by a Grant-in-Aid for Special Research in Subsidies for ordinary expenses of private schools from The Promotion and Mutual Aid Corporation for Private Schools of Japan
