Researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) have developed a novel hydrogel designed to mitigate chemotherapy-induced hair loss (alopecia), a common and distressing side effect of cancer treatment. The temperature-responsive gel contains lidocaine and adrenalone, substances that constrict blood vessels.
Led by Associate Professor Bryan Smith of MSU's College of Engineering and Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, the team's innovation aims to reduce blood flow to the hair follicles during chemotherapy. By limiting the follicles' exposure to chemotherapy drugs, the gel offers a potential alternative to existing methods like scalp cooling caps, which can be expensive and uncomfortable.
The gel's temperature-responsive nature allows it to adhere to the scalp at body temperature, ensuring sustained delivery of the active ingredients. Upon cooling, it thins for easy removal. This design was influenced by discussions with cancer patients and physicians, highlighting a need for improved quality-of-life solutions during treatment.
Chemotherapy-induced alopecia affects a significant portion of patients, with estimates suggesting around two-thirds experience hair loss with certain treatments. This side effect can cause considerable personal, social, and professional anxiety, sometimes leading patients to consider refusing optimal treatment. While scalp cooling has shown success in clinical trials, with up to 50% of patients retaining hair compared to none in control groups, the new gel aims to provide a more accessible and user-friendly option.
The research, detailed in MSUToday on September 2, 2025, has shown promising results in animal models, demonstrating a significant reduction in hair loss. However, the gel has not yet undergone human clinical trials. The research team is actively seeking funding to advance the gel into human trials, a crucial step for validating its safety and efficacy in patients.
The scientific principle behind restricting blood flow to hair follicles is established, and the gel's temperature-responsive characteristic adds a practical layer of innovation. The development represents a significant stride in addressing a long-standing challenge in cancer care, offering a beacon of hope for patients seeking to alleviate one of chemotherapy's most visible and emotionally taxing side effects.