Minoxidil is widely known as a vasodilator and is an ingredient used specifically in the treatment of male and female pattern baldness. Although the specific mechanism of action of minoxidil is not fully understood, it is believed that some of its effects are due to interactions with enzymes involved in the process of minoxidil metabolism.
Sulfotransferases are a group of enzymes involved in the sulfation of various compounds in the body.These enzymes play an important role in the metabolism of many drugs and hormones, including minoxidil. Specifically, sulfotransferases convert minoxidil to minoxidil sulfate. This sulfate form is the active metabolite of minoxidil and exerts its hair-growth-promoting effects through vasodilation and activation of hair matrix cells.
Therefore, sulfotransferase is an important enzyme in the activation process necessary for minoxidil to be effective. If sulfotransferase activity is deficient, minoxidil may not be fully effective.
