Advances in androgenetic alopecia model research

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most prevalent form of non-scarring hair loss, and its pathogenesis is quite complex, involving androgen metabolism, follicular microenvironment imbalance, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. Understanding these multifactorial mechanisms is critical for developing effective therapeutic strategies. To this end, various experimental models have been extensively employed. In this review, we summarized recent progress in AGA model research, covering in vitro cell models such as dermal papilla cells and keratinocytes, in vivo animal models—primarily mice treated with testosterone or dihydrotestosterone, as well as genetically modified strains, and ex vivo hair follicle organ culture models. Some emerging approaches, like three-dimensional organoid systems and Organ-on-a-Chip Technologies, are also discussed. The aim of this review is to provide a theoretical framework to guide future drug development and mechanistic studies in AGA.