Hair growth agent, biomolecule expression promoter, hair growth product, hair growth method, and method for manufacturing hair growth product

Abstract

To provide a technique that can be safely performed and provides an effective hair growth effect. [Solution] A hair growth agent containing one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (iv) and (vi) to (x) as an active ingredient for hair growth: (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (vi) maltotriitol, (vii) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of five or more sugars (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup), (viii) reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup with a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and not more than 55 (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup), (ix) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five or more sugars (low sugar content reduced starch syrup), (x) reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup with a dextrose equivalent of 10 to 35 (low sugar content reduced starch syrup).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a hair growth agent, a biomolecule expression promoter, a hair growth product, a hair growth method, and a method for manufacturing a hair growth product. More specifically, the present invention relates to a hair growth agent, an insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) expression promoter, a fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) expression promoter, a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression promoter, a tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) expression promoter, a fibroblast growth factor-7 (FGF-7) expression promoter, and a WINT5A expression promoter, all of which contain, as an active ingredient, one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, maltotriitol, medium-glycosylated reduced starch syrup, and low-glycosylated reduced starch syrup, as well as hair growth products, a hair growth method, and a method for manufacturing a hair growth product using these. [Background technology]

[0002] Hair plays an important role in maintaining life, such as maintaining body temperature and protecting the body surface, and in humans it is distributed over the entire body except for the palms, soles of the feet, and parts of the pubic area. Hair grows and falls out according to a hair cycle (for human scalp hair, one cycle lasts 2 to 6 years) consisting of the growth, regression, and telogen phases. The average human adult has 100,000 to 150,000 hairs on their scalp, of which 85 to 90% are in the growth phase (unless there are symptoms of thinning or hair loss), and 50 to 100 hairs in the telogen phase fall out per day, but hair growth keeps the scalp density fairly constant.

[0003] Hair is produced in a skin appendage called a hair follicle. The hair follicle has a complex structure, with the hair shaft (commonly referred to as hair) at its center, surrounded by the inner root sheath (IRS), and then enveloped by the outer root sheath (ORS). During the anagen phase, the lower part of the hair follicle is spherical and bulging, known as the hair bulb. The hair bulb contains the dermal papilla, a mesenchymal tissue, at its center. The dermal papilla is composed of fibroblast-like dermal papilla cells, capillaries, and intercellular matrix. The epithelial area adjacent to the dermal papilla, where active cell division occurs, is called the hair matrix, and the cells that make up this matrix are called hair matrix cells. During the anagen phase, hair matrix cells proliferate and differentiate, resulting in hair elongation. During the catagen phase, apoptosis occurs in the tissues below the hair follicle, including the hair matrix, causing hair growth to cease, and the hair follicle, which had extended deep into the dermis, begins to retract. During the telogen phase, the hair follicle shortens and approaches the epidermis, taking on a club-like shape called a club hair. During this phase, macrophages in the dermal papilla phagocytose melanin pigment and cellular debris. When the anagen phase resumes, hair matrix cells begin to divide, producing new hair, which pushes the club hair out. In general, hair thickness is proportional to the size of the hair follicle, and hair length is proportional to the duration of the anagen phase. Close interaction between the hair matrix and the dermal papilla cells that line it is essential for the hair cycle process, and if there is an abnormality in this regulation, problems can occur with hair thickness, length, shape (wavy hair, etc.), color, etc.

[0004] Meanwhile, in recent years, due to various factors such as increased stress and changes in diet, the number of men and women suffering from thinning hair (a condition in which hair becomes thinner and shorter) and hair loss (hair loss) has been on the rise, leading to a growing demand for hair growth agents. For example, hair growth agents containing minoxidil, a typical hair growth ingredient, are commercially available, and Patent Document 1 discloses a hair growth agent containing, as an active ingredient, an extract of one or more plants selected from the group consisting of Phoenix tree, White eyebrow grass, and False hawk's eyelash. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5676837 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, when applied to the scalp, minoxidil can cause side effects such as scalp itching, redness, rash, dandruff, and a feeling of heat (Taisho Pharmaceutical Group, Taisho Pharmaceutical Product Information Site, Home Page > Taisho Pharmaceutical Useful Column > Hair Care Contents > Side Effects of Minoxidil, [online], [Searched on August 6, 2024], Internet)<URL: https: / / brand.taisho.co.jp / contents / riup / 367 / #a3> ) has become a problem. That is, even in view of the above patent documents, it cannot be said that there is still a sufficient supply of hair growth agents that can be used safely without concerns about side effects. The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and aims to provide a technology that can be used safely and that can provide an effective hair growth effect. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] As a result of extensive research, the present inventors have found that one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, maltotriitol, medium-sugar content reduced starch syrup, and low-sugar content reduced starch syrup (sometimes referred to as "the present sugar alcohols" in the present invention) promote the expression of a wide range of biomolecules involved in hair growth. Based on these findings, the present inventors have completed the following inventions.

[0008] (1) The hair growth agent of the present invention contains, as an active ingredient for hair growth, one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (iv) and (vi) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (vi) maltotriitol, (vii) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup); (viii) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and not more than 55 (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup); (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars or more (low-sugar reduced starch syrup); (x) Reduced starch syrup (low sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 to 35.

[0009] (2) The IGF-1 expression promoter according to the present invention comprises, as an active ingredient, one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vi) maltotriitol, (vii) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup); (viii) Reduced starch syrup (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and not more than 55; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars or more (low-sugar reduced starch syrup); (x) Reduced starch syrup (low sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 to 35.

[0010] (3) The FGF-2 expression promoter of the present invention comprises, as an active ingredient, one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup); (viii) Reduced starch syrup (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and not more than 55; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars or more (low-sugar reduced starch syrup); (x) Reduced starch syrup (low sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 to 35.

[0011] (4) The VEGF expression promoter of the present invention comprises, as an active ingredient, one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup); (viii) Reduced starch syrup (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and not more than 55; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars or more (low-sugar reduced starch syrup); (x) Reduced starch syrup (low sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 to 35.

[0012] (5) The agent for promoting ALPL expression according to the present invention comprises, as an active ingredient, one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup); (viii) Reduced starch syrup (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and not more than 55; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars or more (low-sugar reduced starch syrup); (x) Reduced starch syrup (low sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 to 35.

[0013] (6) The FGF-7 expression promoter of the present invention comprises, as an active ingredient, one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i), (ii), (v), and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup); (viii) Reduced starch syrup (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and not more than 55; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars or more (low-sugar reduced starch syrup); (x) Reduced starch syrup (low sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 to 35.

[0014] (7) The WINT5A expression promoter according to the present invention comprises, as an active ingredient, one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup); (viii) Reduced starch syrup (medium sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and not more than 55; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars or more (low-sugar reduced starch syrup); (x) Reduced starch syrup (low sugar content reduced starch syrup) obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 to 35.

[0015] (8) The hair growth product of the present invention contains the hair growth agent described in (1) to (7) above, an IGF-1 expression promoter, an FGF-2 expression promoter, a VEGF expression promoter, an ALPL expression promoter, an FGF-7 expression promoter and / or a WINT5A expression promoter (these may be collectively referred to as "the agent") as an active ingredient for hair growth.

[0016] (9) The hair growth product according to the present invention may further contain adenosine, minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, t-flavanone and / or kudzu root extract.

[0017] (10) The hair growth product according to the present invention may contain 0.5 to 10% by mass of the sugar alcohol of the present invention.

[0018] (11) The hair growth method according to the present invention includes a step of contacting the agent with the scalp. This method may be excluding medical procedures.

[0019] (12) The method for producing a hair growth product according to the present invention includes a step of blending the agent as a raw material to exert a hair growth effect. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the present invention, it is possible to promote the expression of biomolecules involved in hair growth (e.g., IGF-1, FGF-2, VEGF, ALPL, FGF-7, WINT5A). Therefore, hair-growth effects such as increasing hair length, hair density, or hair thickness can be achieved. Therefore, symptoms of thinning hair and hair loss can be prevented, improved, or treated. Furthermore, the sugar alcohol of the present invention, which is the active ingredient, has been used in foods in the past, and is therefore extremely safe. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to achieve a hair-growth effect or promote the expression of biomolecules without raising concerns about safety or side effects.

[0021] Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is a peptide hormone with a structure similar to insulin. Many of the actions of growth hormones are mediated by IGF-1, which promotes cell growth and differentiation and also has insulin-like effects. Synthetic IGF-1 is currently used as a therapeutic agent to treat hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, and growth disorders. It is also known that dermal papilla cells produce cell growth factors such as IGF-1, VEGF, and FGF, and induce the division and differentiation of hair matrix cells (Katsuoka Norio, "Are Dermal Papilla Cells or Hair Follicle Stem Cells the Main Player in Hair Growth Induction?" [online], broadcast August 25, 2011, Radio Nikkei, Maruho Dermatology Seminar, [searched May 18, 2020], Internet)<URL: http: / / medical.radionikkei.jp / maruho_hifuka_pdf / maruho_hifuka-110825.pdf> ) Based on these findings, it is believed that promoting the expression of IGF-1 in the body would be effective in achieving growth hormone-like and insulin-like actions and hair growth effects. According to the present invention, it is possible to promote the expression of such useful IGF-1. The present invention can be used in all applications where promoting the production of IGF-1 is meaningful.

[0022] FGF-2 is a single-chain polypeptide consisting of 155 amino acids that belongs to the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family. It is known to induce proliferation of many types of cells, including not only fibroblasts but also vascular endothelial cells, neuroectodermal cells, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, vascular smooth muscle cells, and epithelial cells. In particular, FGF-2 has attracted considerable attention in the field of regenerative medicine due to its potent angiogenic activity and its ability to promote cell proliferation of undifferentiated mesenchymal cells while maintaining their pluripotency. Furthermore, it has been reported that hair regeneration was not observed when FGF-2 was not added during in vitro preparation of hair follicle primordia, whereas hair regeneration was observed when FGF-2 was added. Furthermore, it has been reported that the addition of 100 ng / ml of FGF-2 significantly increased the number of regenerated hairs (Yoshimura Chisa et al., "Development of a Mass Preparation Method for Hair Follicle Primordium Toward the Realization of Hair Regenerative Medicine," 56th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Artificial Organs, Exploratory Research Poster Presentation Award Winner Report, Artificial Organs, Vol. 48, No. 1, 2019). Based on these findings, promoting FGF-2 expression in vivo is believed to be effective for the proliferation of desired cells, angiogenesis, hair growth, and other purposes. According to the present invention, the expression of such useful FGF-2 can be promoted. The present invention can be used in all applications where promoting FGF-2 production is meaningful.

[0023] VEGF is a 34-46 kDa glycoprotein that promotes the proliferation, migration, and differentiation of vascular endothelial cells, increases microvascular permeability, and is also involved in the activation of monocytes and macrophages. VEGF is produced by various cells in the body (e.g., pituitary cells, smooth muscle cells, macrophages, alveolar epithelial cells, hepatocytes, and ORS cells and dermal papilla cells of hair follicles). Inhibition of VEGF production in hair follicles leads to a delay in the anagen phase of the hair cycle and a decrease in follicle size (J. Clin. Invest., 2001, Vol. 107, pp. 409-411), suggesting that VEGF plays an important role in hair follicle regeneration and development (Patent No. 5676837). In addition to angiogenesis, VEGF has also been reported to promote autocrine proliferation of hair papilla cells (Lachger S, Moukadiri H, Jonca F, Charveron M, Bouhaddioui N, Vascular endothelial growth factor is an autocrine growth factor for hair dermal papilla cells. J Invest Dermatol 106, 17-23, 1996). Based on these findings, promoting VEGF expression in vivo is believed to be effective in promoting angiogenesis and hair follicle regeneration and development, i.e., hair growth. According to the present invention, the expression of such useful VEGF can be promoted. The present invention can be used for all applications in which promoting VEGF production is meaningful.

[0024] Alkaline phosphatase (ALP; EC 3.1.3.1) is an enzyme that hydrolyzes phosphate monoester bonds at alkaline pH (pH 9-11) and consists of approximately 500 amino acids. The alkaline phosphatase family is divided into four known species: liver / kidney / bone (tissue-nonspecific), small intestine, placenta, and germ cell (placental-like) types. Among these, tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) is expressed in a wide range of tissues and cells, including liver, bone, kidney, testis, fibroblasts, and macrophages (Ishida et al., Structure and Function of Alkaline Phosphatase, Clinical Chemistry 33, 36-44, 2004). ALPL is involved in the mineralization of hard tissues (bone and teeth) and is known as a marker of the hair papilla, specifically expressed in anagen-phase hair papilla cells. It has also been reported that hair papilla cells with high ALPL activity have a high hair follicle induction potential. Based on these findings, promoting the expression of ALPL in vivo is believed to be effective in calcifying hard tissues such as bones and teeth, and in activating hair papilla cells, i.e., promoting hair growth. According to the present invention, the expression of such useful ALPL can be promoted. The present invention can be used in all applications where promoting the production of ALPL is meaningful.

[0025] FGF-7 is a 17-30 kDa protein belonging to the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family and is also known as keratinocyte growth factor (KGF). FGF-7 primarily exerts a growth-promoting effect on epithelial cells (keratinocytes) specifically, and is involved in morphogenesis, angiogenesis, and wound healing. Studies using mouse and rat homologs have also shown that FGF-7 is involved in epithelial tissue morphogenesis, re-epithelialization of wounds, angiogenesis, and hair growth (NCBI, GenBank, Homo sapiens fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7), mRNA, NCBI Reference Sequence: NM_002009.4, Summary, [online], [searched May 18, 2020], Internet).<URL: https: / / www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov / nuccore / NM_002009> ) Based on these findings, promoting the expression of FGF-7 in the body is believed to be effective in promoting the proliferation of desired epithelial cells, tissue repair, and hair matrix cell proliferation, i.e., hair growth. According to the present invention, the expression of such useful FGF-7 can be promoted. The present invention can be used in all applications where promoting the production of FGF-7 is significant.

[0026] WINT5A (Wnt5A) is a protein belonging to the Wnt family. Wnt family proteins are secreted signaling molecules involved in intercellular signaling and consist of 300 to 400 lipid-modified amino acids. WINT5A is known to be involved in morphogenesis during embryonic development, as well as to promote insulin secretion (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-220022) and suppress apoptosis of hair follicle papilla cells (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-133233). Based on these findings, promoting WINT5A expression in vivo is believed to be effective in preventing and treating diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and other conditions, as well as for hair growth. According to the present invention, it is possible to promote the expression of such useful WINT5A. The present invention can be used in all applications where promoting WINT5A production is meaningful. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows the expression ratio of the ALPL gene in hair papilla cells cultured in the presence of adenosine (ADS), minoxidil (MIX), or various sugar alcohols (erythritol (ERT), xylitol (XLT), sorbitol (SOR), mannitol (MNT), maltitol (MLT), medium-glycosylated reduced starch syrup (A1), and low-glycosylated reduced starch syrup (A2)). [Figure 2] FIG. 1 shows the expression ratio of FGF-2 gene in dermal papilla cells cultured in the presence of ADS, MIX or various sugar alcohols. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 shows the expression ratio of the FGF-7 gene in dermal papilla cells cultured in the presence of ADS, MIX, or various sugar alcohols. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 shows the expression ratio of IGF-1 genes in dermal papilla cells cultured in the presence of ADS, MIX, or various sugar alcohols. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 shows the expression ratio of the IGF-1 gene in hair papilla cells cultured in the presence of ADS or maltotriitol (G3H). [Figure 6]FIG. 1 shows the expression ratio of the VEGF gene in hair papilla cells cultured in the presence of ADS, MIX, or various sugar alcohols. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 shows the expression ratio of Wint5A in dermal papilla cells cultured in the presence of ADS, MIX or various sugar alcohols. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] The present invention will be described in detail below.

[0029] In the present invention, "hair growth" refers to increasing the length of hair, increasing hair density (increasing hair), thickening hair, or making hair stronger, and is used interchangeably with "hair growth" and "hair care."

[0030] "Hair growth products" refer to products such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, foods, beverages, and supplements that are used for or have a hair growth effect. Specific examples include cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and quasi-drugs for hair (applicable to the scalp and hair), and more specific examples include hair styling products such as ointments, creams, lotions, styling products, hair creams, hair mists, hair water, hair foams, and hair gels, hair care products such as hair lotions, hair treatments, hair conditioners, hair masks, and hair packs, scalp products such as scalp treatments, hair coloring products such as color treatments, color rinses, hair manicures, and hair dyes, hair washing products such as shampoos, and hair rinses.

[0031] In the present invention, "promoting expression" of a biomolecule such as IGF-1, FGF-2, VEGF, ALPL, FGF-7, and WINT5A means increasing the transcription level of a gene encoding all or part of the biomolecule in any cell, tissue, or organ of a living organism, increasing the amount of the biomolecule, or increasing the activity of the biomolecule.

[0032] "Reduced starch syrup" is a type of sugar alcohol obtained by reducing starch syrup, and is also called hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, or maltooligosaccharide alcohol. Here, starch syrup is a substance obtained by saccharifying starch with acids or enzymes, and is a mixture of monosaccharides (glucose) and polysaccharides (oligosaccharides, dextrins, etc.). Therefore, reduced starch syrup is also a mixture containing two or more sugar alcohols, including monosaccharide sugar alcohols and polysaccharide (disaccharides, trisaccharides, tetrasaccharides, or more than pentasaccharide) sugar alcohols.

[0033] Depending on the degree of saccharification, reduced starch syrup can be divided into (a) high-saccharification reduced starch syrup (a sugar composition of 30-50% by mass of monosaccharides, 20-50% by mass of disaccharides, and 25% by mass or less of trisaccharides or more), (a) medium-saccharification reduced starch syrup (a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of pentasaccharides or more), and (c) low-saccharification reduced starch syrup (a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of pentasaccharides).Of these, the present invention uses the above-mentioned (a) medium-saccharification reduced starch syrup and / or (c) low-saccharification reduced starch syrup as an active ingredient.

[0034] In the present invention, the sugar composition of the medium-saccharification reduced starch syrup can be, for example, the sugar composition described above (a), as well as 2 to 10 mass% monosaccharides, 15 to 55 mass% disaccharides, 15 to 65 mass% trisaccharides, 1 to 15 mass% tetrasaccharides, and 1 to 38 mass% pentasaccharides or more.

[0035] In addition, the sugar composition of the low-saccharification reduced starch syrup can be, for example, the sugar composition described above (c), or can be 1 to 10% by mass of monosaccharides, 6 to 21% by mass of disaccharides, 7 to 23% by mass of trisaccharides, 5 to 13% by mass of tetrasaccharides, and 50 to 82% by mass of pentasaccharides or more.

[0036] The "sugar composition" refers to the mass percentage of each sugar relative to the total mass of sugars. In other words, it is the mass percentage of each sugar when the total mass of sugars is 100.

[0037] The sugar composition can be confirmed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). That is, reduced starch syrup or starch syrup is subjected to HPLC as a sample to obtain a chromatogram. In the chromatogram, the sum of the areas of all peaks corresponds to the "total mass of sugars," and the area of ​​each peak corresponds to the "mass of each sugar." Therefore, the mass percentage of each sugar in the sample can be calculated as the ratio of the area of ​​each peak to the sum of the areas of all detected peaks. HPLC conditions can be set appropriately according to standard methods, but the following conditions can be exemplified. HPLC conditions Column: MCI GEL CK04S (10mm ID x 200mm) Eluent; high purity water Flow rate; 0.4mL / min Injection volume: 20μL Column temperature: 65°C Detection: Differential refractive index detector RI-10A (Shimadzu Corporation)

[0038] "Dextrose equivalent (DE)" is the percentage of reducing sugars in a sample measured as glucose relative to the total solid content, and is used as an index of the degree of saccharification of starch syrup. The maximum DE value is 100, which means that all of the solid content is glucose, and the lower the DE, the more oligosaccharides and polysaccharides there are.

[0039] That is, examples of the DE of the raw material starch syrup for medium sugar content reduced starch syrup include (a) more than 35, 37 or more, 48 or less, 50 or less, 55 or less, or more than 35 or less than 55.

[0040] Furthermore, examples of the DE of the raw material starch syrup for low sugar content reduced starch syrup include (d) 10 or more, 12 or more, 14 or more, 30 or less, 32 or less, 35 or less, or 10 or more and 35 or less.

[0041] The DE of starch syrup can be measured by the following method. <<DE measurement method>> Accurately weigh 2.5 g of sample and dissolve in water to make 200 mL. Measure 10 mL of this solution, add 10 mL of 1 / 25 mol / L iodine solution (Note 1) and 15 mL of 1 / 25 mol / L sodium hydroxide solution (Note 2), and leave in the dark for 20 minutes. Next, add 5 mL of 2 mol / L hydrochloric acid (Note 3), mix, and then titrate with 1 / 25 mol / L sodium thiosulfate solution (Note 4). When the solution turns slightly yellow near the end of the titration, add 2 drops of starch indicator (Note 5) and continue titrating. The end point is when the solution's color disappears. Determine the blank value using water, and calculate DE using the following equation 1. TIFF2026037105000002.tif49165

[0042] (Note 1) 1 / 25 mol / L iodine solution: Place 20.4 g of potassium iodide and 10.2 g of iodine in a 2 L measuring flask, dissolve in a small amount of water, and then add water up to the marked line. (Note 2) 1 / 25 mol / L sodium hydroxide solution: Place 3.2 g of sodium hydroxide in a 2 L measuring flask, dissolve it in a small amount of water, and then add water up to the marked line. (Note 3) 2 mol / L hydrochloric acid: Gradually add 150 mL of hydrochloric acid to 750 mL of water while stirring. (Note 4) 1 / 25 mol / L sodium thiosulfate solution: Place 20 g of sodium thiosulfate in a 2 L measuring flask, dissolve it in a small amount of water, and then add water up to the marked line. (Note 5) Starch indicator: Dissolve 5 g of soluble starch in 500 mL of water, and dissolve 100 g of sodium chloride in this.

[0043] Erythritol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in fruits such as grapes and pears, as well as in fermented foods such as miso, soy sauce, and sake. Its chemical name is 1,2,3,4-butaneterol, a tetracarbonose monosaccharide alcohol with a sweetness level of 60-80% that of sucrose. It is a reduced form of erythrose, and is obtained industrially by fermentation.

[0044] Xylitol is a pentose monosaccharide alcohol naturally found in many fruits and vegetables, including plums, strawberries, and cauliflower. It is a reduced form of xylose and has a sweetness equivalent to that of sucrose.

[0045] Sorbitol is a hexose monosaccharide alcohol naturally found in rowan berries, apples, prunes, etc. It is a reduced form of glucose and has a sweetness level of 60-70% that of sucrose.

[0046] Mannitol is a hexose monosaccharide alcohol that is naturally found in dried seaweed, dried persimmons, mushrooms, etc. It is an isomer of sorbitol and has a sweetness level of 55-70% that of sucrose.

[0047] Maltitol is a disaccharide sugar alcohol, a reduced form of maltose (malt sugar). It consists of one glucose molecule and one sorbitol molecule bonded together, and is also called reduced maltose. Its sweetness is 80 to 90% of that of sucrose, and it has a sweetness similar to that of sucrose. Maltitol is contained as a main component (e.g., 50 to 75% or more) in reduced maltose syrup. Therefore, reduced maltose syrup can also be used as the maltitol of the present invention.

[0048] Maltotriitol, also known as α-D-Glc-(1→4)-α-D-Glc-(1→4)-D-glucitol, is a trisaccharide sugar alcohol.

[0049] The sugar alcohol of the present invention may be a commercially available product as is, or may be produced by a method known to those skilled in the art. For example, examples of commercially available medium-sugar reduced starch syrup include "Aquaol #1," "Sweet OL," and "SE 57" (all from Bussan Food Science), and examples of commercially available low-sugar reduced starch syrup include "Aquaol #2," "Sweet NT," "SE 30," and "SE 100" (all from Bussan Food Science), "PO-10," and "PO-20" (all from Mitsubishi Corporation Life Science).

[0050] For example, a known method for producing reduced starch syrup involves a reduction reaction in which hydrogen is added to the raw material starch syrup (raw material sugar). The reduction reaction by hydrogen addition can be carried out, for example, by charging a 40-75% by mass aqueous solution of raw material sugar together with a reduction catalyst into a high-pressure reactor, adjusting the hydrogen pressure in the reactor to 4.9-19.6 MPa, and the reaction solution temperature to 70-180°C, while mixing and stirring, until hydrogen absorption is no longer observed. The reduction catalyst is then separated, and the resulting mixture is decolorized and desalted by ion exchange resin treatment, and if necessary, activated carbon treatment, etc., and then concentrated to a predetermined concentration to produce a highly concentrated reduced starch syrup.

[0051] The sugar alcohol of the present invention can be used as an external preparation by contacting the scalp or hair, or as an internal preparation by oral ingestion, for example. The sugar alcohol may be used alone or may be incorporated into products such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, hygiene products, food and beverages, and supplements. The sugar alcohol of the present invention can be incorporated as a raw material in the usual process for producing these products.

[0052] That is, the present invention also provides a hair growth method comprising the step of contacting the agent with the scalp, and a method for producing a hair growth product comprising the step of incorporating the agent as a raw material to exert a hair growth effect. The method may include other steps as long as the features of the present invention are not impaired. Examples of such steps include a step of measuring the sugar alcohol and other raw materials, a mixing step, a stirring step, a filtering step, a sterilization / pasteurization step, a cooling step, a heating step, and a packaging step.

[0053] The sugar alcohol of the present invention can be blended in the production of products (such as hair growth products) by any method known to those skilled in the art, depending on the type of product, its intended use, the types and amounts of other raw ingredients, the desired feel when used, etc. Because the sugar alcohol of the present invention is a polyhydric alcohol, it can be used in the production of hair growth products in the same way as other polyhydric alcohols that are conventionally blended, such as glycerin, 1,3-butylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, and pentylene glycol.

[0054] In addition to blending the sugar alcohol of the present invention into products (such as hair growth products), other ingredients (for example, surfactants, solvents, dispersion media, other polyhydric alcohols, preservatives, chelating agents, pH adjusters, other sugars such as sorbitol, colorants, animal and plant extracts, vitamins, inorganic salts, organic salts, solubilizers, disinfectants, moisturizers, antioxidants, humectants, UV absorbers, thickeners, fragrances, cationic polymers, refreshing agents, cooling agents, oils, etc.) may also be blended, as long as the features of the present invention are not impaired.

[0055] In addition to the sugar alcohol of the present invention, hair growth products may also contain other hair growth ingredients (for example, adenosine, minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, t-flavanone, sophora root extract, etc.).

[0056] The amount of the sugar alcohol of the present invention blended in a product (such as a hair growth product) can be appropriately determined depending on the type of product, its intended use, the types and blending amounts of other raw ingredients, the desired feel when used, and the like. For example, assuming the total mass of the product is 100% by mass, examples of lower limits for the sugar alcohol (solid content) of the present invention include 0.05% by mass or more, 0.06% by mass or more, 0.07% by mass or more, 0.08% by mass or more, 0.09% by mass or more, 0.1% by mass or more, 0.2% by mass or more, 0.3% by mass or more, 0.4% by mass or more, and 0.5% by mass or more; and examples of upper limits include 50% by mass or less, 48% by mass or less, 46% by mass or less, 44% by mass or less, 42% by mass or less, 40% by mass or less, 38% by mass or less, 36% by mass or less, 34% by mass or less, 32% by mass or less, 30% by mass or less, 28% by mass or less, 26% by mass or less, 24% by mass or less, 22% by mass or less, 20% by mass or less, 18% by mass or less, 16% by mass or less, 14% by mass or less, 12% by mass or less, and 10% by mass or less.

[0057] The present invention will be described below based on examples, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the features shown in these examples. [Example]

[0058] <Test Method> Unless otherwise specified, the tests were carried out according to the following methods. (1) Test substance The test substances used were the sugar alcohols and reagents shown in Table 1. Adenosine and minoxidil are substances that have been known to have hair growth effects. [Table 1]

[0059] (2) Cell culture in the presence of the test substance Human dermal papilla cells (Takara Bio Inc.) were cultured at 1.0–2.0 × 10 5 The cells were seeded into a 6-well plate at a cell density of 100 cells / well and pre-cultured for 24 hours at 37°C and 5% CO2 using a dermal papilla cell proliferation medium kit (Takara Bio Inc.). The medium was then replaced with medium containing the test substance (1.5 mL / well), and the cells were further cultured for an additional 24 hours under the same conditions; this served as the test group. The final concentration of the test substance in the medium (test concentration) was as shown in Table 2. The medium was also replaced with medium not containing the test substance (1.5 mL / well), and the cells were further cultured for an additional 24 hours under the same conditions; this served as the control group. [Table 2]

[0060] (3) Quantitative PCR After the completion of the culture in Example 1(2), the cells were thoroughly washed with PBS (phosphate buffered saline). Total RNA was extracted using ISOGEN II (Nippon Gene Co., Ltd.), and this was used as a template for reverse transcription PCR using ReverTra Ace qPCR RT Master Mix (Toyobo Co., Ltd.) to obtain cDNA. Using this cDNA as a template, quantitative PCR was performed using TB Green Premix ExTaq II (Takara Bio Inc.) and amplification primers for the target nucleic acid (evaluation target gene, internal control gene), and the Ct value (threshold cycle value) was measured. The evaluation target gene and its amplification primers are shown in each Example. The internal control gene was the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) gene, and its amplification primers were as follows: The PCR reaction cycle was as follows: 95°C for 30 seconds (initial denaturation), 95°C for 5 seconds and 60°C for 30 seconds for 40 cycles, 95°C for 1 second, 60°C for 20 seconds, and 60-95°C for 0.15°C / second. <GAPDH gene amplification primer (internal standard)> Forward: 5'-GACATCAAGAAGGTGGTGAAGCAG-3' (SEQ ID NO: 1) Reverse: 5'-AAAGTGGTCGTTGAGGGCAATG-3' (SEQ ID NO: 2)

[0061] The measurement results were corrected by the Ct value of the internal standard, and then comparatively quantified using the ΔΔCt method. The expression level in the control group was set at 1.0, and this ratio was calculated as the expression ratio of the target gene. The expression ratio was calculated as the average value of three samples for each test substance. If the expression ratio (average value) was 1.1 or higher, it was determined that the expression level of the target gene in the test group was higher than that of the control group.

[0062] Example 1: Promoting the expression of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) Dermal papilla cells were cultured in the presence of the test substance as described in Test Method (2), and quantitative PCR was performed as described in Test Method (3). The gene to be evaluated was the ALPL gene (NM_000478.6; Homo sapiens alkaline phosphatase, biomineralization associated (ALPL), transcript variant 1, mRNA) (SEQ ID NO: 3). The primers used to amplify the ALPL gene are shown below. The expression ratio of the ALPL gene is shown in Figure 1. <<Primers for amplifying the ALPL gene>> Forward: 5'-CAAACCGAGATACAAGCACTCCC-3' (SEQ ID NO: 4) Reverse: 5'-CGAAGAGACCCAATAGGTAGTCCAC-3' (SEQ ID NO: 5)

[0063] As shown in Figure 1, the expression ratio of the ALPL gene was 1.1 or higher in the test groups to which minoxidil, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup was added. In other words, the expression level of the ALPL gene in cells was high in the presence of minoxidil, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. These results demonstrate that erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup can promote ALPL expression.

[0064] Example 2: Promoting the expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) Dermal papilla cells were cultured in the presence of the test substance as described in Test Method (2), and quantitative PCR was performed as described in Test Method (3). The gene to be evaluated was the FGF-2 gene (NM_002006.6: Homo sapiens fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), transcript variant 1a, mRNA) (SEQ ID NO: 6). The primers used to amplify the FGF-2 gene are shown below. The expression ratio of the FGF-2 gene is shown in Figure 2. <FGF-2 gene amplification primer> Forward: 5'-AGAAGAGCGACCCTCACATC-3' (SEQ ID NO: 7) Reverse: 5'-ACTGCCCAGTTCGTTTCAGT-3' (SEQ ID NO: 8)

[0065] As shown in Figure 2, the expression ratio of the FGF-2 gene was 1.1 or higher in the test groups containing minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. In other words, the expression level of the FGF-2 gene in cells was high in the presence of minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. These results demonstrate that erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup can promote FGF-2 expression.

[0066] Example 3: Promoting the expression of fibroblast growth factor-7 (FGF-7) Dermal papilla cells were cultured in the presence of the test substance as described in Test Method (2), and quantitative PCR was performed as described in Test Method (3). The gene to be evaluated was the FGF-7 gene (NM_002009.4; Homo sapiens fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7), mRNA) (SEQ ID NO: 9). The primers used to amplify the FGF-7 gene are shown below. The expression ratio of the FGF-2 gene is shown in Figure 3. <FGF-7 gene amplification primers> Forward: 5'-TCTGTCGAACACAGTGGTACCTGAG-3' (SEQ ID NO: 10) Reverse: 5'-GCCACTGTCCTGATTTCCATGA-3' (SEQ ID NO: 11)

[0067] As shown in Figure 3, the expression ratio of the FGF-7 gene was 1.1 or higher in the test groups to which minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup was added. In other words, the expression level of the FGF-7 gene in cells was high in the presence of minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. These results demonstrate that erythritol, xylitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup can promote the expression of FGF-7.

[0068] Example 4: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) expression promoting effect (1) Rating 1 Dermal papilla cells were cultured in the presence of the test substance as described in Test Method (2), and quantitative PCR was performed as described in Test Method (3). The gene to be evaluated was the IGF-1 gene (X00173.1: Homo sapiens mRNA for insulin-like growth factor 1A precursor, complete CDS) (SEQ ID NO: 12). The primers used to amplify the IGF-1 gene are shown below. The expression ratio of the IGF-1 gene is shown in Figure 4. <IGF-1 gene amplification primer> Forward: 5'-TTGCTCTCAACATCTCCCATCT-3' (SEQ ID NO: 13) Reverse: 5'-TGCATCTTCACCTTCAAGAAAT-3' (SEQ ID NO: 14)

[0069] As shown in Figure 4, the IGF-1 gene expression ratio was 1.1 or higher in the test groups containing minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. In other words, the expression level of the IGF-1 gene in cells was high in the presence of minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. These results demonstrate that erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup can promote IGF-1 expression.

[0070] (2) Rating 2 Adenosine and maltotriitol (abbreviation: G3H, molecular weight: 506.45, form: powder, specifications: maltotriitol purity 98% or higher, reagent, manufacturer / distributor: USBiological) were used as test substances. Dermal papilla cells were cultured in the presence of the test substances as described in Example 4(1), and the expression ratio of the IGF-1 gene was measured. However, the test concentration of G3H was 5 mM. The expression ratio of the IGF-1 gene is shown in Figure 5.

[0071] As shown in Figure 5, the expression ratio of the IGF-1 gene was 1.1 or higher in the test group with adenosine or maltotriitol added. In other words, the expression level of the IGF-1 gene in the cells was high in the presence of adenosine or maltotriitol. This result demonstrated that maltotriitol can promote the expression of IGF-1.

[0072] The expression ratio of the maltotriitol-added test group was approximately 74.7% ((1.36 / 1.82) x 100 ≒ 74.7) when the adenosine-added test group was set to 100%. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 4, the expression ratio of the medium-glycation reduced starch syrup-added test group was approximately 85.7% ((2.21 / 2.58) x 100 ≒ 85.7) when the adenosine-added test group was set to 100%. In other words, while maltotriitol is a component contained in approximately 50% of the medium-glycation reduced starch syrup of this example, the medium-glycation reduced starch syrup had a greater effect of promoting IGF-1 expression. These results revealed that mixtures containing monosaccharides, disaccharides, tetrasaccharides, and pentasaccharides or more in addition to maltotriitol have a greater effect of promoting IGF-1 expression.

[0073] Example 5: Promoting the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) Dermal papilla cells were cultured in the presence of the test substance as described in Test Method (2), and quantitative PCR was performed as described in Test Method (3). The gene to be evaluated was the VEGF gene (NM_001025366.3; Homo sapiens vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), transcript variant 1, mRNA) (SEQ ID NO: 15). The primers used to amplify the VEGFA gene are shown below. The expression ratio of the VEGFA gene is shown in Figure 6. <VEGFA gene amplification primers> Forward: 5'-AAAGCATTTGTTTGTACAAGATCCG-3' (SEQ ID NO: 16) Reverse: 5'-CTTGTCACATCTGCAAGTACGTTCG-3' (SEQ ID NO: 17)

[0074] As shown in Figure 6, the VEGFA gene expression ratio was 1.1 or higher in the test groups containing minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. In other words, the expression level of the VEGFA gene in cells was high in the presence of minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. These results demonstrate that erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup can promote VEGFA expression.

[0075] Example 6: Evaluation of the effect of promoting WINT5A expression Dermal papilla cells were cultured in the presence of the test substance as described in Test Method (2), and quantitative PCR was performed as described in Test Method (3). The gene to be evaluated was the Wint5A (NM_003392.7; Homo sapiens Wnt family member 5A (WINT5A), transcript variant 1, mRNA) gene (SEQ ID NO: 18). The primers used to amplify the WINT5A gene are shown below. The expression ratio of the WINT5A gene is shown in Figure 7. <Primers for amplifying the WINT5A gene> Forward: 5'-CAAGTTGGTACAGGTCAACAGCCGC-3' (SEQ ID NO: 19) Reverse: 5'-GAGCCGGTGCTCTCATTGCGCACGC-3' (SEQ ID NO: 20)

[0076] As shown in Figure 7, the expression ratio of the WINT5A gene was 1.1 or higher in the test groups containing minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. In other words, the expression level of the WINT5A gene in cells was high in the presence of minoxidil, adenosine, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup. These results demonstrate that erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, medium-sugar reduced starch syrup, or low-sugar reduced starch syrup can promote WINT5A expression.

Claims

1. A hair growth agent containing, as an active ingredient for hair growth, any one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (iv) and (vi) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (vi) maltotriitol, (vii) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars; (viii) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and 55 or less; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars; (x) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 or more and 35 or less.

2. An insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) expression promoter, comprising, as an active ingredient, any one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vi) maltotriitol, (vii) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars; (viii) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and 55 or less; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars; (x) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 or more and 35 or less.

3. An agent for promoting the expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), comprising, as an active ingredient, any one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars; (viii) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and 55 or less; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars; (x) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 or more and 35 or less.

4. An agent for promoting the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), comprising, as an active ingredient, any one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars; (viii) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and 55 or less; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars; (x) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 or more and 35 or less.

5. An agent for promoting the expression of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (ALPL), comprising, as an active ingredient, any one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars; (viii) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and 55 or less; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars; (x) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 or more and 35 or less.

6. An agent for promoting the expression of fibroblast growth factor-7 (FGF-7), comprising, as an active ingredient, any one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i), (ii), (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars; (viii) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and 55 or less; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars; (x) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 or more and 35 or less.

7. An agent for promoting WINT5A expression, comprising, as an active ingredient, any one or more sugar alcohols selected from the group consisting of the following (i) to (v) and (vii) to (x): (i) erythritol, (ii) xylitol, (iii) sorbitol, (iv) mannitol, (v) maltitol, (vii) reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of less than 30% by mass of monosaccharides and less than 50% by mass of 5 or more sugars; (viii) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of more than 35 and 55 or less; (ix) Reduced starch syrup having a sugar composition of 50% by mass or more of five sugars; (x) Reduced starch syrup obtained by reducing starch syrup having a dextrose equivalent of 10 or more and 35 or less.

8. A hair growth product comprising the agent according to any one of claims 1 to 7 as an active ingredient for hair growth.

9. The hair growth product according to claim 8, further comprising adenosine, minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, t-flavanone and / or kudzu root extract.

10. The hair growth product according to claim 8, wherein the sugar alcohol is contained in an amount of 0.5 to 10% by mass.

11. A hair growth method (excluding medical procedures) comprising the step of contacting the agent according to any one of claims 1 to 7 with the scalp.

12. A method for producing a hair growth product, comprising a step of incorporating the agent according to any one of claims 1 to 7 as a raw material in order to exert a hair growth effect.

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