Biotech firm files patent following L-Ergothioneine discovery in hair and nail growth
The Washington-based firm, formerly called Total Nutraceutical Solutions announced that it has filed the patent entitled: ‘A Nutritional Approach to the Use of Ergothioneine for Hair and Nail Growth’ which covers both natural and/ or synthetic forms of the amino acid.
Big opportunity
“The market for hair health and growth is significant with billions of dollars spent annually by consumers wanting to improve their appearance,” said Dr Marvin Hausman, Entia CEO.
“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 our Company.”
The discovery was made during its recently announced research study with Lifespan Biosciences that is attempting 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.
Ongoing studies
Entia acquired the diagnostic and therapeutic rights to the Ergo Transporter from the University of Cologne just less than two years ago and has since been working to scientifically validate the physiologic role of Ergo in human health.
Ergo is a proven antioxidant that has been shown to reduce or prevent oxidative stress and inflammation, and the discovery of significant Ergo Transporter expression within the germinative layer of the cells responsible for hair growth is the first of what Entia hopes will be many Ergo-related technology advancements to be announced this year.
“This important finding helps explain the positive customer experiences and reports of improved hair and nail growth from our Groh nutritional supplement,” continued Hausman.
Topically applied extensions planned
Groh is a natural nutritional supplement that is currently offered online and through hair salons throughout North America.
Entia intends to expand on the nutricosmetic line to potentially include soaps, shampoos, lotions and other Ergo-based consumer oriented health and beauty products as demand for the technology increases.
The expected extension will rely on results from a human clinical study, planned in the coming months, that will measure hair and nail growth in patients 60 days before and 90 days following supplementation.
