Top 5 Articles of the Week: May 18-23

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1. Q&A: Pelage's Novel PP405 Advances to Phase 2a for Androgenetic Alopecia

Pelage Pharmaceuticals recently announced its novel topical agent, PP405, has advanced to a phase 2a study for androgenetic alopecia, with enrollment currently underway at sites across the US.

Dermatology Times recently spoke with Qing Yu Christina Weng, MD, chief medical officer of Pelage. Weng is a physician scientist and board-certified dermatologist seeing patients at Massachusetts General Hospital and is a member of Harvard Medical School faculty. She is also on the boards of Advancing Innovation in Dermatology and Immunis, Inc.

2. IL-23 and IL-17 Inhibitors Reduce Cardiovascular Outcomes in Statin-Treated Psoriasis Patients

A UCLA study presented at the 2025 Society for Investigative Dermatology Meeting found that biologic therapies significantly reduce cardiovascular risks in statin-treated psoriasis patients. In a cohort of over 32,000 individuals, biologics—especially IL-23 and IL-17 inhibitors—led to marked reductions in events like stroke, heart failure, and heart attacks compared to non-biologic treatments. IL-23 inhibitors showed the greatest benefit with a 54% average reduction in risk, followed by IL-17 (37%), IL-12/23 (27%), and TNF-α inhibitors (22%). These findings suggest that biologics provide added cardioprotection beyond statins in this high-risk population.

3. The Unprecedented Phase 1 Results of ET-02 for the Treatment of Androgenic Alopecia

Eirion Therapeutics has reported promising first-in-human trial results for ET-02, a topical treatment for androgenic alopecia. The drug showed exceptional safety with no local or systemic adverse effects and delivered unprecedented hair regrowth in just 5 weeks—6 times more than placebo and even outperforming minoxidil’s four-month results. Unlike current treatments that stimulate the hair follicle or stem cell, ET-02 targets a correction in defective stem cell biology to restore normal hair growth. With this novel mechanism, ET-02 could reshape the hair loss treatment landscape and potentially play a role in future prevention strategies.

4. AI Model Creates Successful Treatment Regimens for Women with Hair Loss

A new study found that an AI-powered platform developed by MDalgorithms can create personalized, non-medicated hair loss treatments that significantly improve hair growth, thickness, and scalp health. In a six-month trial of 27 women with self-reported thinning hair, AI analyzed scalp images and questionnaires to recommend individualized regimens of over-the-counter products. Results showed 77.7% of patients had increased hair growth, with significant reductions in hair shedding and improved cuticle structure. Nearly 90% reported overall hair improvement, and no adverse effects were observed. Researchers see this AI approach as a promising, accessible tool to complement in-person dermatological care.

5. New Guidance Aims to Improve Genital Psoriasis Treatment

Arcutis Biotherapeutics announced the publication of the first expert-led consensus guidelines for genital psoriasis in JEADV Clinical Practice, developed by the Genital Psoriasis Wellness Consortium. Affecting about 6 million Americans, genital psoriasis is often underdiagnosed due to stigma and lack of clinical awareness. The 14 consensus statements address three key areas: improving physical diagnosis through routine genital exams and better patient communication; recognizing the condition’s outsized impact on quality of life; and promoting individualized treatment planning through shared decision-making. The consortium also advocates for a dedicated ICD-10-CM code and highlights emerging treatments like topical roflumilast and systemic therapies. These recommendations aim to legitimize and enhance care for this overlooked condition.

Want to hear more pearls and expert insights on AD? Join us at the annual Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis Conference this June in Nashville, TN. Use code DT40 for 40% off your RAD 2025 registration.