Entia Biosciences, Inc. (OTCQB: ERGO) (ENTIA) announced today that its USDA organic certification for manufacturing and handling has been expanded to include the extraction and processing of two new mushroom-based ingredients developed by Entia and its academic research partners. Ergo Essence™ and Chitin-Glucan Complex™ are functional ingredients extracted from the whole food that contain naturally high concentrations of L-Ergothioneine (Ergo), Ergocalciferol (vitamin D2), and other important nutrients that Entia research has shown play an important role in cell health and rejuvenation. Entia expects to begin incorporating these new "100% USDA Organic" ingredients into its expanded GROH® hair care and cosmetics line which will be introduced to the beauty industry later this year.
Ergo Essence™ is a proprietary ingredient extracted from mushrooms that contains naturally high levels of L-Ergothioneine (Ergo), a powerful antioxidant that is made in few organisms, notably filamentous fungi, and is transported to cells throughout the body by a genetically encoded protein (human gene symbol SLC22A4) called "The Ergothioneine Transporter." Entia exclusively licensed the transporter discovery from the University of Cologne in 2010 and has since filed a series of provisional use patents covering the use of Ergo and its transporter in the newly developed principal of targeted cell nourishment. The recent discovery by Entia of significant transporter activity in the hair follicle, nail bed, and epithelial layer of the skin has confirmed the cytoprotectant role of Ergo in fighting the damaging effects of free radicals and oxidative stress from the sun, harsh chemicals, and other toxins present in our environment. Ergo Essence™ is an extremely efficient way to nourish these cells and enhance their longevity and functionality.
Chitan-Glucan Complex™ is a proprietary ingredient extracted from mushrooms that contains elevated levels of Ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and high concentrations of Chitin beta-Glucans, a potent mixture of antioxidants and phytonutrients. During the manufacturing process, the complex is exposed to Entia's proprietary UV light enhancement technology, which naturally increases D2 content by over 800%. A published study by Gautier et al showed that application of chitin and beta-Glucans, natural polymers obtained from the fungal cell walls, were active in controlling skin redness (erythema) and improving water retention within skin cells with resultant improved skin tone (elasticity and firmness) (1). Another recently published article states: "A number of factors indicative of anti-aging effects, such as fibroblast proliferation, collagen increase, ATP production, etc. are significantly improved by the addition of chitin." (2)
"Based on the feedback we have been receiving from our GROH® test marketing at several leading salon chains, we are confident that beauty professionals and their customers will quickly understand and appreciate the benefits of these all natural products," said Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Entia Biosciences, Inc. "The biological importance of Ergo and vitamin D2 in cell proliferation, protection, and anti-aging is significant and we are excited about the upcoming national rollout and the revenue opportunity that lies ahead."
About the Certification
The organic certification was conducted by Oregon Tilth (OTCO) and allows Entia to use the "100% USDA Organic" seal in the marketing and packaging of its Ergo-D2®, Ergo Essence™, and Chitin-Glucan Complex™ ingredients and the products that contain them. OTCO is an internationally recognized symbol of organic integrity that verifies strict production standards with on-site inspections and legally binding contracts to protect the producers and buyers of organic products. OTCO has certified that Entia Biosciences, Inc. (i) examines the current organic certification status of its organic products, (ii) maintains a record-keeping process that demonstrates an audit trail for organic products, and (iii) ensures organic products are appropriately protected from commingling with other conventional products.
About Entia Biosciences, Inc.
Entia is an authority on the clinical effects of oxidative stress and free radical reactions and is bringing this expertise to food science biotechnology and the field of nutrigenomics. The Company identifies, scientifically validates, patents, and commercializes solutions that address multi-billion dollar markets for health, beauty and agriculture.Bibliography:
(1) Gautier, S. et al, Chitin-Glucan, A Natural Cell Scaffold for Skin Moisturization and Rejuvenation, Int. J. Cosmet. Sci., 2008 Dec.; 30(6): 459-69.
(2) Morganti, P. et al, Cosmetic Science in Skin Aging: Achieving The Efficacy By The Chitin Nano-Structured Crystallites, SOFW-Journal, 2010 June, 136: 14-24.
