The specialist developer of anti-ageing and skin healing compounds has specified a minimum two-year development plan for Compound PHX27 from Malus domestica, the apple tree.
The advancement of its first portfolio compound will be signified through testing towards approval.
Patented compounds
"We are delighted to announce publicly the first of our portfolio of patented compounds that we will be advancing through to approval,” said chief executive Dr Jan-Elo Jorgensen.
“PHX27 represents a new generation of skin enhancement products with exceptional efficacy and a well-established mode of action. We look forward to expanding our close collaboration with the Polish Academy of Sciences and other world-leading science institutions."
Co-founder and Phytage's chief scientific officer, Dr Brian F.C. Clark, said at the signing ceremony, "everyone knows the expression ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’ -- research at Phytage and the Polish Academy of Sciences has shown this to carry significant weight.”
“Of the hundreds of compounds present in apples, key components demonstrate significant beneficial properties on human cells in general. Understanding of the causal mechanisms underlying the normal processes of ageing remains sparse today.”
Better understanding
Phytage says its research and development platform is focused on the better understanding of the molecular basis of ageing in man, bridging the gap between cause and effect to bring advanced molecular science to the skin care industry, ‘improving the options available to consumers.’
Its collaboration with the Polish Academy of Sciences additionally provides for a broad access agreement to a large existing portfolio of small molecule ingredients backed by strong scientific claims.
It is not the first time the apple has been utilised for its skin care benefits. Cosmetics firm Swedish Skin launched its apple serum in 2010 as the main ingredient in its anti-ageing rejuvenation cream.
The apple serum was found in a rare, endangered Swiss/ Swedish apple, and whilst it is by no means the first use of the serum in a skin care product brand, Swedish Skin claims the same level as it is utilised in this product has never been seen.