Singapore, Oct 5, 2009: Carotech, a subsidiary of Hovid and, one of the largest GMP-certified pharmaceutical companies in Malaysia announced the commencement of the largest human clinical trial on tocotrienols, specifically evaluating the neuroprotective and anti-atherogenic properties of Tocomin SupraBio – patented and bioenhanced natural full spectrum palm tocotrienol complex.
The release noted that it is a 3-year randomized double blind placebo controlled study involving 400 subjects and funded by the Malaysian Palm Oil Board and the Ministry of Science, Malaysia. Carotech provides all the soft gel capsules (based on Tocomin SupraBio) for this study.
This phase II clinical trial evaluates the neuroprotective properties of Tocomin SupraBio by evaluating and reviewing white matter changes in the brain using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before, during and after supplementation. White matter lesions represent areas of subclinical infarct and may be an independent prognostic measure of future stroke risk.
Large animal studies conducted by Prof. Chandan Sen and his group of researchers at The Ohio State University Medical Center showed extremely low level of Tocomin natural full spectrum palm tocotrienol complex prevented glutamate-induced death of neuron cells in mice through the inhibition of c-Src kinase and 12-lipoxygenase. In addition, tocotrienol-supplemented rats showed more protection against stroke-induced injury (significant reduction in volume of cerebral infarct) compared with matched controls.
In addition to the neuroprotective effect, the study will also evaluate the effects of tocotrienols on blood parameters such as total lipid profile, Apo-B, C-reactive protein, antioxidant profile, Lp(a) and lipid peroxidation (secondary objectives).
"Tocomin SupraBio is a patented self-emulsifying tocotrienol formulation that enhances oral absorption of tocotrienols by an average of 250% and independent of food intake. We are proud to be chosen and associated with this largest ever clinical trial on tocotrienols. Being the largest and only GMP-certified tocotrienol producer, it underscores Carotech’s emphasis on science and clinical trials to bring this unique form of vitamin E to our customers," said WH Leong, the Vice President of Carotech
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