Tokiwa’s black turmeric found to activate protein targeting healthy aging and metabolism

06 Apr 2021 --- New research reveals that Sirtmax, Tokiwa Phytochemical’s proprietary black turmeric extract from Kaempferia parviflora, may help promote healthy aging and metabolic conditions.

The study also suggests that the active compound in Sirtmax may be up to five times more effective than resveratrol in binding to SIRT1 protein. This protein contributes to human longevity by regulating different cell-survival pathways.

The polymethoxyflavonoids-rich ingredient is increasing in relevance, a spokesperson at Maypro Industries, the exclusive distributor of Sirtmax in North and South America, tells NutritionInsight.

“Health complaints related to metabolic disorder will be more common due to the lack of exercise,” they say.  

“Clinical studies further confirm the efficacy of Sirtmax on the metabolism through a reduction in body weight, blood glucose level, HbA1c and accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), without any observable adverse effects.” 

Black turmeric is related to both turmeric and ginger.Botanical with a history 
The ingredient extracted from the rhizome of Kaempferia parviflora has a long history of use in traditional medicine in Asia, and goes by the names “black turmeric,” “black ginger” or “Thai ginseng.”

“As it is commonly known for curcumin products, methoxyflavone also has water-insoluble nature. Thus, it is typically recommended to be taken with a meal, expecting that the bile acid could better emulsify it in oil or fat from the diet,” explains the spokesperson. 

“However, the human clinical studies have been carried out without any special instructions and have shown statistically significant results.” 

Activating the longevity gene
The latest study by Tokiwa and the University of Tokyo published in Communications Biology reveals that quercetin 3,5,7,3′,4′-pentamethyl ether (KPMF-8), an active compound of Sirtmax, directly binds with the SIRT1 protein and activates it. 

The SIRT1 protein drives many cellular activities, like energy metabolism, cell survival, DNA stability, inflammation and circadian rhythms. 

The SIRT1 gene, also known as the longevity gene, recharges mitochondria, the “power plants” of cells, which tend to wind down with age, notes the company. 

SIRT1 is also known to suppress inflammation and increase resistance to hypoxia (oxygen deprivation) and heat stress.

Cell and experimental studies demonstrate that SIRT1 activation is associated with increased insulin sensitivity. It has been shown – in experimental studies – to play a vital role in processes that could potentially prevent many age-related diseases, including Type 2 diabetes, neurodegeneration, Alzheimer’s disease and cancer, the company notes. 

The black turmeric extract is suitable for applications in anti-aging, glucose management, energy, weight management and cardiovascular support.Comparing with resveratrol
This study reveals that KPMF-8 activates SIRT1 more effectively than resveratrol. 

KPMF-8 interacts with SIRT1 directly and stimulates SIRT1 activity by enhancing the binding affinity of SIRT1 with its substrate, Ac-p53 peptide. 

The binding affinity between SIRT1 and Ac-p53 peptide was enhanced 8.2-fold by KPMF-8, but only 1.4-fold by resveratrol. 

Furthermore, intracellular SIRT1 activity was promoted 1.7-fold by KPMF-8 but only 1.2-fold by resveratrol.

On the market 
The spokesperson reports that Sirtmax has been available in the US for five and a half years, while it has been on the Japanese market since March 2013. 

While capsules are the most common delivery format in the US, the ingredient is generally suitable for other applications. 

“We also offer a water-soluble grade for the growing need of beverage applications with the same health benefits,” notes the spokesperson. 

The company further notes that black turmeric — which is related to both turmeric and ginger — has been safely consumed as a revitalizing drink in Thailand and Laos for years.

“With consumers increasingly concerned about aging and the associated chronic issues that can develop, we feel strongly that Sirtmax is poised for immense growth in a whole host of anti-aging applications,” says Dan Lifton, president of Maypro’s proprietary and branded ingredients division.

A study this February found that quercetin may reduce heart disease risk by reducing vascular inflammation.

By Missy Green