TNS Files Patent on L-Ergothioneine Technology for Hair Loss and Nail Growth
Total Nutraceutical Solutions (TNS), an emerging leader in whole food biotechnology, announced it has filed a provisional patent that covers the use of a specific human gene for treating hair loss and improving nail health.
The patent entitled: "A Nutritional Approach to the Use of Ergothioneine for Hair and Nail Growth" coves the use of ingestible and topically applied natural and/or synthetic L-Ergothioneine (Ergo) to maintain and improve hair and nail health, growth, and natural coloring, according to a press release from the company.
The discovery leading to the patent application was made during a research with Lifespan Biosciences that attempted to identify the presence and/or deficiency of the unique and specific Ergothioneine Transporter (human gene symbol SLC22A4) in a wide variety of normal and diseased human tissues.
TNS’ Groh is a natural nutritional supplement that features ErgoD2, a 100 percent USDA certified organic ingredient that is naturally rich in Ergothioneine and Ergocalciferol (vitamin D2). ErgoD2 is manufactured utilizing the Company's patented UV light technology, which naturally increases D2 levels by as much as 2000 percent.
"This important finding helps explain the positive customer experiences and reports of improved hair and nail growth from our Groh nutritional supplement," said Dr. Marvin S. Hausman, CEO of TNS. "Our upcoming human study should further validate the effectiveness of this technology by quantifying the rate as well as quality of hair and nail growth in a clinical setting."
It has been already proved that oxidative stress, free radicals such as cytokines and inflammation cause hair loss, cellular damage and premature graying. Ergo, a master anti-oxidant has been proven to reduce or prevent oxidative stress and inflammation. The discovery of significant Ergo Transporter expression within the germinative layer of the cells responsible for hair growth is a significant Ergo-related advancement.
Following this development, TNS acquired the diagnostic and therapeutic rights to the Ergo Transporter from the University of Cologne in 2010 and has since been working to scientifically validate the physiologic role of Ergo in human health.
More Ergo-related technology advancements are expected from TNS in 2012. The company is planning to commence an IRB approved human clinical study that will measure hair and nail growth in patients 60 days before and 90 days following supplementation. The findings of the study will be used in the marketing and potential infomercial, which the company plans to air this year.
The company also plans to expand the Groh product line to include soaps, shampoos, lotions and other Ergo-based consumer oriented health and beauty products as the demand for hair health products increases.
"The market for hair health and growth is significant with billions of dollars spent annually by consumers wanting to improve their appearance," according to Dr. Hausman. "Beyond the brand-named pharmaceuticals offered for hair loss, there are very few natural solutions for hair health and growth that have been scientifically proven to be effective.”
With more than half of men over 50 experiencing some level of hair loss, and a growing number of women developing Alopecia, this market represents a very large opportunity for TNS, Dr. Hausman added.
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