Mediach announced on the 26th that it has developed a new MOF-based material that adsorbs dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is involved in hereditary hair loss, and has registered a related patent.
The new technology adsorbs already generated DHT molecules onto the material instead of inhibiting DHT production. Unlike some existing hair loss treatment drugs that act on the hormone production pathway, this technology utilizes the molecular adsorption function of the material.
DHT is a hormone generated when the male hormone testosterone is converted by 5α-reductase. It contributes to the onset and progression of male pattern baldness by shrinking hair follicles and shortening the hair growth phase.
Mediach designed the new material so that it interacts with DHT molecules by controlling the pore structure and surface properties of the MOF. The company is currently advancing the technology to apply it to scalp care products. However, the actual effectiveness and safety for hair loss management still require further verification.
MOF is a porous crystalline material in which metal ions and organic molecules are combined. Because pore size and surface properties can be precisely designed, it is used to adsorb specific molecules or store and release active ingredients. MOFs have been studied in various fields such as carbon dioxide capture, removal of hazardous substances, and energy storage. The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar Yaghi for their contributions to the development of MOFs.
Mediach plans to develop this technology as a core material for its MOF-based dermocosmetic brand “Dermamof.” The company intends to integrate molecular adsorption functionality with antioxidant properties and technologies for storing and sustained release of active ingredients to expand its scalp and skin care product lineup, and to apply it to new drug development through joint research with domestic and overseas pharmaceutical companies.
CEO Kim said, “As the value of MOFs has been highlighted worldwide through the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, it is important to apply advanced materials to real life,” adding, “We will continue research and development to provide a new option for consumers suffering from hair loss by objectively verifying the performance and safety of the technology.”
Jeong Jin-su 기자 brjeans@donga.com
AI-translated with ChatGPT. Provided as is; original Korean text prevails.
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