Researchers Investigate Natural Sugar 2dDR for Potential Hair Regrowth

Mon, 04 May 2026 01:52:00 +0200

Male pattern baldness affects roughly half of all men, yet only two FDA-approved treatments currently exist. Recent research from the University of Sheffield and COMSATS University Pakistan suggests that a naturally occurring sugar, 2-deoxy-D-ribose (2dDR), may promote hair regrowth. Initially studied for its role in wound healing in mice, 2dDR was found to enhance blood vessel formation, which unexpectedly also stimulated hair growth around healing areas. Follow-up experiments modeled testosterone-driven hair loss in mice to mimic human male pattern baldness. Small doses of 2dDR improved several hair health indicators, including follicle density, hair thickness, and melanin coverage, showing effectiveness comparable to minoxidil, a commonly used topical treatment. Researchers note that 2dDR is naturally occurring, inexpensive, and stable, making it a promising candidate for further study. While findings remain in early stages and have not yet been tested in humans, the approach target