AquaCelle technology enhances absorption of CoQ10

Photo © iStockphoto.com/nicolas_ 

A recent double-blind, randomized, and single equivalent dose study¹ found that a self-micro-emulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) called AquaCelle (from Pharmako Biotechnologies, based in New South Wales, Australia) increased the absorption of CoQ10. The absorption of CoQ10 could be challenging due to its water insolubility and limited absorption within the gastrointestinal tract.

In the study, 66 subjects were divided into five groups: 1) AquaCelle CoQ10 paste, micelle size < 20 μm, 2) CoQ10 solubilized in MCT, 3) Ubiquinol, 4) AquaCelle CoQ10 liquid, micelle size <10 μm, 5) AquaCelle CoQ10 paste, micelle size <15 μm. The researchers hypothesized that the smaller micelle particles will further enhance absorption of CoQ10. Apart from the ubiquinol group, each group received the same ubiquinone. Blood samples evaluating CoQ10 plasma levels were taken at baseline, 1, 2, 3.5, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 24 hours, post supplementation.

Results showed that the AquaCelle and ubiquinol groups showed significantly greater increases in CoQ10 concentrations compared to the standard CoQ10 group. Group 4, the AquaCelle CoQ10 liquid preparation showed the greatest absorption, increasing threefold, compared to standard CoQ10. Group 1 and Group 5 showed a 2.5-fold and 2.4-fold greater increase of CoQ10 concentration, respectively, compared to the standard CoQ10 group.

“This human pharmacokinetic study adds to the evidence supporting our AquaCelle technology and its ability to increase the bioavailability of lipophilic ingredients,” said Eric Meppem, co-founder/commercial director at Pharmako Biotechnologies, in a press release. “Reducing the relevant dose or improving the efficacy of an ingredient through enhanced absorption, AquaCelle provides obvious benefits to consumers and important points of differentiation to brand companies.”

Pharmako’s North American sister company is Gencor (Irvine, CA).

References:

1. Briskey D et al. “The impact of micelle size and increased absorption of ubiquinone using a novel delivery system (AquaCelle)” International Journal of Pharmacokinetics, Published online ahead of print September 16, 2019