VDPHL01: Mechanism of Action

Last updated 22 Oct 2025

Overview

VDPHL01 is described by Veradermics as a non-hormonal oral agent that protects hair follicles from dihydrotestosterone (DHT)–driven miniaturisation. Publicly available data remain limited; most mechanistic details are disclosed only in patent filings and conference abstracts.

Below is a synthesis of current hypotheses, preliminary findings and open questions.

Proposed molecular targets (preclinical data)

  • Blockade of intracrine DHT signalling at the follicular dermal papilla, without systemic 5-alpha-reductase inhibition.
  • Up-regulation of microvascular flow via endothelial nitric-oxide pathways, improving follicle perfusion.
  • Modulation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, promoting anagen re-entry.
    Note: evidence limited to in-vitro dermal papilla cultures (n = 3 studies).

Sources: Veradermics patent WO2025/072131; poster P-112, WCHR 2025 (accessed 22 Oct 2025).

Why it is considered “non-hormonal”

Unlike finasteride or dutasteride, VDPHL01 is not designed to inhibit systemic 5-alpha-reductase. Pharmacokinetic models presented by the sponsor predict negligible changes in serum testosterone / DHT ratios (<3 % variation, simulation data). Confirmation requires Phase I endocrine panels (results not yet published).

Source: Veradermics analyst deck, Q2 2025.

Pharmacokinetics (Phase I summary)

  • Tmax ≈ 2 h; T1/2 ≈ 18 h (single-dose, n = 24 healthy males).
  • Food effect: +12 % AUC (high-fat meal), considered non-clinically significant.
  • No QTc prolongation observed at doses up to 3× planned therapeutic range.

Source: Veradermics Investigator Brochure v1.3 (redacted), 2025.

Outstanding uncertainties

  • Lack of peer-reviewed human scalp biopsies confirming molecular pathway engagement.
  • Unknown long-term cardiovascular profile for a vasodilatory mechanism.
  • Absence of head-to-head data versus finasteride 1 mg or oral minoxidil.

Scientific implications & risk assessment

Recommended monitoring in ongoing trials

  • 24-h ambulatory blood pressure and HRV (autonomic effects).
  • Comprehensive endocrine panel (testosterone, DHT, oestradiol).
  • Pilot scalp biopsy sub-study: AR-target gene expression, perifollicular vascular density.

Key takeaways

VDPHL01’s proposed mechanism could offer a systemic, yet hormone-neutral, approach to AGA. However, most supporting data are preclinical or proprietary. Robust confirmation requires publication of Phase 2/3 biomarker and histology endpoints.

For trial design details and primary endpoints, see the Clinical Trials page.

Sources

  • ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06724614 (accessed 22 Oct 2025).
  • Veradermics patent WO2025/072131 (accessed 22 Oct 2025).
  • World Congress for Hair Research 2025, poster P-112 (abstract; accessed 22 Oct 2025).
  • Veradermics Investigator Brochure v1.3 (excerpt; accessed 22 Oct 2025).
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