KEY INTERVIEW: Algatechnologies’ New Advisor Believes in the Future of Astaxanthin

30 May 2016 --- Algatechnologies has boosted their R&D expertise with the addition of their new Scientific Advisor Professor Yuval Heled. NutritionInsight talks with the new appointee about his involvement in their new multi-year science-based product development strategy.

Professor Heled is Chief Scientist at the Heller Institute of Medical Research, and holds senior scientific positions at various universities, including Tel Aviv University, the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland, USA. He has also received scientific accolades for his research.

Professor Heled has had a long relationship with the Algatechnologies, which produces natural astaxanthin and other microalgae-derived products for the nutraceuticals and cosmetics industry: “I have been studying astaxanthin academically for years, and had obtained their natural astaxanthin product for my previous research.”

However, it was a particularly fortuitous event which led to this new role as Scientific Adviser: “Six years ago the company got in touch with me as they were interested in my science. We were discussing research from Georgetown University on how high dose astaxanthin lowers blood pressure in rats. At that moment, the air conditioning failed, but animals given astaxanthin survived despite the increased heat. I looked at the mechanism of astaxanthin on heat and brain injury, and the rest is history!”

Astaxanthin belongs to the xanthophylls carotenoid family, and has high anti-oxidant activity. Brain cells can be damaged easily by oxidative stress, and several scientific studies indicate that astaxanthin plays a role in protecting the brain from reactive oxygen species (ROS), chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen: “Astaxanthin has an important effect on the brain. There is a potential to use astaxanthin after concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI).”

In more recent years Algatechnologies has worked with Professor Heled and his associates on on-going research into the benefits of astaxanthin in exercise and coping with extreme physical stress.

“The pre-conditioning effect of astaxanthin reduces muscle injuries and radical oxygen damage to cells, and improves health of athletes,” Professor Heled explained.

“However, extreme sports are becoming more common in those who are not athletes. These people are also exposed to heat stress and also need support for recovery. Astaxanthin has the potential for anti-Inflammation defense, pre-conditioning for sport performance, as well as health promotion.”

With all of the health benefits of astaxanthin, it is clear why Professor Heled is helping Algatechnologies in this new capacity: “People are exposed to a lot of stress, pollution, and different foods. They are searching for support for their health from food, exercise etc.”

“I believe in astaxanthin. There are not many natural agents which can be connected to so many benefits – including prevention and treatments of diseases.”

“I’m convinced about astaxanthin’s antioxidant properties and its potential for contributing to human health and performance. My main aim is to strengthen Algatechnologies clinical knowledge. I will continue to point the company in the right direction as much as I can.”

Algatechnologies has a number of plans for their innovation and new product development teams, and Professor Heled plans to be part of them: “I will help in the scientific direction for the new multi-year science-based product development strategy.”

“I will find evidence based data and will assist in developing healthy astaxanthin products for the population. I will look at the data magnitude from around the world, and act as a supportive tool so that astaxanthin is used as it should be”.

“I will still be an independent scientist, but also be a mentor and guide for Algatechnologies. As Scientific Advisor, I believe in the company’s innovation for the potential of this product and other future products.,” says Professor Heled.

by Kerina Tull