Topical hair growth inhibition using TAS2R4 stimulation by rebaudioside A
Discover a novel method to inhibit unwanted hair growth using TAS2R4 receptors stimulated by rebaudioside A, a natural compound found in stevia. This topical solution suppresses hair growth without damaging hair follicles, offering a revolutionary approach to hair removal.
Overview
Our innovative solution leverages the natural compound rebaudioside A, found in stevia, to effectively inhibit unwanted hair growth through the stimulation of TAS2R4 bitter taste receptors in hair follicles. This approach suppresses cell proliferation and increases the production of TGFbeta, a natural hair growth inhibitor, thereby shifting hair follicles into resting phases without damaging them. This method offers a gentle, non-destructive alternative to traditional hair removal techniques.
Technical specifications
The solution involves topical application of rebaudioside A, which targets TAS2R4 receptors in hair follicles. This stimulation occurs in two stages: initially inhibiting cell proliferation in the hair matrix and subsequently increasing TGFbeta production. These processes collectively induce the regression and resting phases of the hair cycle. The formulation is designed for topical application, ensuring direct follicle targeting while minimizing systemic exposure.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 6, having demonstrated efficacy in ex vivo studies with human hair follicles. The next steps include developing a targeted topical vehicle, "HairTasteEx," for further validation through skin organ culture experiments and short volunteer trials to confirm commercial viability.
About Cutaneon-Skin & Hair Innovations GmbH
CUTANEON – Skin & Hair Innovations GmbH is a dermatology-focused biotechnology company that translates research in human skin and hair biology into therapeutics and cosmeceuticals. Founded in 2021 by Professor Ralf Paus, the company utilizes a proprietary discovery platform that generates clinical data directly in human skin and hair follicles. Their R&D strategy focuses on exploring underutilized regulatory pathways—such as TRP ion channels, olfactory, and taste receptors—to identify novel active compounds. This science-driven approach allows them to build a patent-protected pipeline addressing indications such as hair growth stimulation, skin rejuvenation, pigmentation control, and the prevention of chemotherapy-induced hair loss.
The company operates a business model primarily centered on co-development partnerships with industry leaders to bring innovative, data-backed products to market. By providing preclinical proof-of-concept and early-stage clinical data, CUTANEON offers partners access to differentiated intellectual property in high-value dermatological and aesthetic sectors. Their research organization is based in Hamburg, Germany, with key laboratories in Berlin and collaborative networks spanning several countries, including the United States, Brazil, and Israel. These collaborations and the company’s focus on humanized ex vivo models enable them to advance programs toward clinical proof-of-concept while maintaining a translational focus on human biology.
delivered to your inbox.