A 2025 study (FASEB BioAdvances) found that verteporfin inhibition of the Hippo pathway actually reduced proliferation and stemness of hair-follicle neural crest stem cells under hypoxia — a nuanced/mixed finding, alongside separate research suggesting YAP inhibition can promote hair follicle regeneration via Trps1/Wnt signalling and reduce transplant-related scarring.
- Lab
- Phase 1
- Phase 2
- Phase 3
- Approved
Lab / animal stage
How it works
An existing FDA-approved drug (for macular degeneration) being investigated off-label/preclinically as a YAP inhibitor; inhibiting the Hippo/YAP pathway has been linked in mouse studies to activating Wnt-pathway hair-follicle regeneration and reducing scarring, including around hair transplant sites.
Results so far
Findings are mixed and context-dependent across different stem cell populations and models; no consolidated single 'key result' can be stated — this is an active, unsettled area of preclinical research, not a therapy ready for trials.
What's next
No human trial or timeline identified.
In India
No India-specific development identified.
Sources
- Journal paper ↗ (accessed 2026-10-17)
- Journal paper ↗ (accessed 2026-10-17)
- Journal paper ↗ (accessed 2026-10-17)
What to do today: treatments in development aren't a reason to wait. Ask a dermatologist about the options that work now, such as minoxidil and, for men, finasteride.
Discussion
Share your experience or ask a question. New members' posts are reviewed before they appear.