What hormone byproduct causes susceptible hair follicles to shrink in androgenetic alopecia via miniaturization?

Answer

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as pattern baldness, operates via a specific hormonal mechanism involving dihydrotestosterone, which is a byproduct derived from testosterone. In individuals who possess the necessary genetic susceptibility in their hair follicles, DHT interacts with these follicles in such a way that it progressively shrinks them over time. This ongoing shrinking process is formally termed miniaturization. As the follicles miniaturize, they produce hairs that are progressively shorter and finer until, eventually, the follicle ceases hair production entirely. This progressive nature distinguishes it from sudden shedding events and links it directly to genetic inheritance and hormonal sensitivity.

What hormone byproduct causes susceptible hair follicles to shrink in androgenetic alopecia via miniaturization?
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