Cell- and enzyme-based screening systems for identifying 5-alpha reductase inhibitors
Established cell-based assay and developing enzyme-based screening platform for rapid identification of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors targeting androgenic alopecia. Combines validated cell-based screening with a new high-throughput enzyme-based system to evaluate synthetic and natural compound libraries for hair growth promotion.
Overview
This solution offers a dual screening platform for discovering 5-alpha reductase (5αR) inhibitors with applications in androgenic alopecia (AGA) treatment. The platform combines an established, published non-radioactive cell-based assay with a new enzyme-based screening system designed for higher throughput. Together, these complementary systems enable rapid and reliable identification of inhibitory compounds from both synthetic and natural product libraries, supporting drug discovery and cosmetic ingredient development for hair growth promotion.
Technical specifications
Cell-based screening system:
- Non-radioactive human hair dermal papilla cell-based assay for 5αR type 1 inhibitor screening
- Validated through multiple peer-reviewed publications since 2013
- Applicable to natural product extracts, purified compounds, and synthetic libraries
- Supports mechanistic studies of hair growth promotion in AGA-relevant cell models
Enzyme-based screening system (in development):
- Designed for higher throughput compound screening
- Involves expression of 5αR type 1 and type 2 genes in microbial hosts (E. coli) or insect cells
- Aims to isolate soluble, functionally active enzyme for inhibitor screening
- Will be validated by cross-comparison with the established cell-based system
Compound library compatibility:
- Supports screening of synthetic compounds, natural product extracts, and modified natural product derivatives
- Enables collaborative compound exchange between partner organizations
Technology readiness level
The cell-based screening system is fully established and validated, with published results demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying 5αR inhibitors from natural product sources. The enzyme-based system is currently in development, with the next phase focused on achieving soluble expression of active 5αR enzymes in heterologous hosts and validating the new assay through parallel screening against known inhibitors identified by the cell-based platform.
About Chulalongkorn University
Chulalongkorn University is a comprehensive public research university in Bangkok, serving a large student body and advancing research from discovery through translation. Its campus anchors an urban innovation district where companies engage through co‑located labs, prototyping facilities, and startup incubation. The university’s integration with a major teaching hospital enables clinical studies and translational collaboration, while co‑op and executive programs connect corporate partners to talent. Research is supported by Thailand’s competitive national funding agencies and international sponsors. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation, with streamlined contracting for industry‑sponsored work.
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