Description
RU-58841 is a non-steroidal antiandrogen that binds to the androgen receptor (Kd = 1.8, 1.1, 5.6, 1.3, and 1.4 nM for human, rat, mouse, hamster prostate, and hamster flank organ receptors, respectively). In vivo, topical administration of RU-58841 (1-100 μg per animal) reduces size of the flank organ without affecting sex organs in a dose-dependent manner in hamsters. It has no effect on sex organ weight in intact rats when administered percutaneously, subcutaneously, or orally at doses up to 1 mg per animal. RU-58841 (5% v/v) also induces hair regrowth in the bald frontal scalps of postpubertal stumptailed macaques, a model for male pattern baldness.
Biological Activity
Androgens are mainly produced in the adrenal glands and testes. They are male hormones responsible for sex-related development. The well-known androgen is testosterone. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is also an androgen, which is a byproduct of testosterone. Although DHT is important for male development and physical health, it can cause hair loss. RU58841 is a topical anti-androgen drug that counteracts the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by binding to the androgen receptors of the hair follicles, preventing DHT from interacting with the androgen receptors of the hair follicles. Therefore, the hair shrinkage process does not begin, ensuring that the hair undergoes a normal growth cycle.