HAKURYUDO Presents Research on IP-PA1 (LPS) and Hair Growth at IWCHR 2026 in Turkey
On June 22–23, 2026, HAKURYUDO participated in the International Workshop on Cosmetology and Hair Restoration (IWCHR-26), held in Istanbul, Turkey, in a hybrid format.
The presentation, delivered by Mark Williams on behalf of Hiroshi Okawa, introduced research conducted in collaboration with Japanese universities and research institutions on the potential effects of IP-PA1 (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) on hair growth and human dermal papilla cell activity.
The presentation highlighted hair growth-related gene expression, experimental findings from cell and animal studies, and the development of hair and scalp care products based on this research.
Background: What Is IP-PA1?
IP-PA1 is a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) derived from Pantoea agglomerans, a bacterium naturally found in environments associated with plants such as wheat and rice.
LPS is known for its interactions with the innate immune system and has been studied extensively in Japan for its potential biological applications.
Building on previous research involving animal health and skin conditions, HAKURYUDO has explored the potential applications of IP-PA1 in hair and scalp care.
Effects on Hair Growth-Related Gene Expression
One of the key topics presented was the effect of IP-PA1 on human dermal papilla cells, which play an important role in regulating hair follicle activity.
Laboratory experiments investigated the expression of two growth factors associated with hair growth:
- VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor): Involved in angiogenesis and vascular support around hair follicles.
- FGF-7 (Fibroblast Growth Factor 7): Involved in epithelial cell activity and hair follicle development.
The experimental results showed increased expression of both VEGF and FGF-7 following exposure to IP-PA1.
The presentation also discussed comparative gene expression findings involving minoxidil and adenosine, suggesting that IP-PA1 may influence hair growth-related pathways through a distinct biological response.
These findings provide a basis for further investigation into the potential applications of IP-PA1 in hair and scalp research.
Hair Growth Observations in Animal Studies
The presentation also introduced findings from a 14-day experimental study using mice.
The study evaluated the effects of both topical application and oral administration of IP-PA1 on hair growth.
Hair regrowth was observed in the IP-PA1 treatment groups, along with changes in hair follicle morphology, including follicular elongation.
These preclinical findings suggest that IP-PA1 may influence hair follicle activity, although additional research is necessary to determine its relevance to human hair growth.
From Scientific Research to Product Development
HAKURYUDO has continued to investigate the potential applications of IP-PA1 in combination with French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol®).
The presentation introduced the development of patented technologies related to hair growth-associated mechanisms and formulations containing these ingredients.
These research efforts have contributed to the development of HAKURYUDO’s Tricho series, including hair and scalp care products designed around the company’s research into IP-PA1 and botanical ingredients.
The presentation also introduced observations from a human study involving 24 participants, in which changes in hair thickness were evaluated following use of a Tricho scalp essence.
Presentation Recognition
The research presentation, titled “Immunopotentiator from Pantoea agglomerans (IP-PA1) Promotes Murine Hair Growth and Human Dermal Papilla Cell Gene Expression,” received a Best Paper Presentation Award from the IWCHR-26 conference organizers.
We appreciate this recognition and remain committed to further research into the potential applications of IP-PA1 in hair and scalp care.
Looking Ahead
Through this international presentation, HAKURYUDO had the opportunity to share its research findings with researchers and professionals participating in the conference.
We remain committed to advancing research into IP-PA1, exploring its potential applications in hair and scalp care, and developing products informed by scientific investigation.
We look forward to continuing our research activities and sharing further developments with the international scientific community.
Watch the Full Presentation
The complete English-language presentation is available below.
IWCHR-26 – Immunopotentiator from Pantoea agglomerans (IP-PA1) Promotes Murine Hair Growth and Human Dermal Papilla Cell Gene Expression
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