Metagenics gets patents for hops joint formulas
relating to Luduxin and Tetrase, two hops-derived ingredients with
anti-inflammatory properties for joint health.
The company describes the ingredients as selective kinase response modifier formulations, or SKRMs. US patent 7,270,835 is for Luduxin, a proprietary blend consisting of rho iso-alpha acids derived from hops. The patent also covers the use of Luduxin for supporting joint health. While the Tetrase patents 7,195,785 and 7,205,151, cover the proprietary tetrahydro-isohumulone blend and its use for inflammation. As SKRMs, Metagenics says these formulations modulate kinases, the enzymes that chemically modify other proteins and regulate cellular pathways, particularly those involved in the transmission of signals within the cell. "Luduxin and Tetrase have shown great promise as SKRMs for joint health and insulin and triglyceride management," said Metagenics chief science officer, Jeffrey Bland. "We're excited by the prospect of discovering further applications for these powerful compounds." The Californian nutraceutical developer says it has linked the ingredients to helping support against inflammation in a host of health conditions, including osteoarthritis, autoimmune disease, low bone mineral density and metabolic syndrome. "Many prevalent health issues have been found to have specific underlying kinase signaling components," said Bland. Kinases also have antioxidant properties and help to regulate substances that can negatively impact health, including eicosanoids, cytokines, and damaging free radicals. According to the company, clinical studies on the safety and efficacy of SKRMs, conducted by researchers at Metagenics' Functional Medicine Research Center and its MetaProteomics Nutrigenomics Research Center, have been published in peer-reviewed nutritional journals. The company indicated it is looking for applications for the new technology. Metagenics is not the first to link hops to anti-inflammatory properties. Pharmachem and John I Haas (JIH) have teamed up to develop more extracts and derivatives from hops for use in supplements in the US market. The two companies collaborated on the introduction of a proprietary, standardized extract of hops - Perluxan - to combat pain caused by inflammation. Metagenics did not respond to NutraIngredients-USA's request for further information in time for this article.
