Zeaxanthin formulations for human ingestion
USRE38009E1 · kind E1 · reissue
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 27, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 25, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 27, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC —)General
Abstract
Preparations are disclosed containing the 3R-3′R stereoisomer of zeaxanthin as a sole detectable isomer, packaged for oral ingestion by humans as a therapeutic drug or nutritional supplement. Zeaxanthin is a yellow carotenoid pigment found in the macula (in the center of the human retina), which helps protect retinal cells against phototoxic damage. The pure R-R stereoisomer can be prepared by fermenting cells, such as Flavobacterium multivorum (ATCC 55238), which do not create any detectable quantity of the undesired and potentially toxic S-S or S-R isomers, and which do not synthesize any other carotenoids. The R-R isomer can be concentrated, in large quantities and at low cost, into a viscous oily fluid containing about 5 to 20% zeaxanthin, by means of a simple solvent extraction process. This oily fluid can be mixed with a carrier such as vegetable oil and enclosed within a digestible capsule, comparable to a conventional capsule containing Vitamin E. Alternately, a zeaxanthin fluid can be added to various types of foods, such as margarine, dairy products, syrup, cookie dough, and certain types of meat preparations which are not subjected to harsh cooking. Additional puri…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.