#Japan #Yokohama #POLA #Sunsho Pharmaceuticals #antioxidant research

Revolutionary Antioxidant Research by Sunsho Pharmaceuticals and POLA

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Sunsho Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., a leading company in contract development and manufacturing of health supplements, has joined forces with POLA, renowned for its dedication to beauty and innovation. Together, they have explored the synergistic effects of flavonoids and ascorbic acid, leading to significant advancements in antioxidant mechanisms. This research will be presented at the 48th Molecular Biology Conference in Yokohama, scheduled for December 3-5, 2025.

The Collaborative Effort

Sunsho Pharmaceuticals has developed a dedicated team aligned with POLA’s research objectives, guiding the project from raw material selection to preliminary testing and necessary preparatory evaluations. This approach goes beyond traditional manufacturing contracts, showcasing a model of co-creation that supports POLA’s ongoing commitment to beauty innovation. The importance of Sunsho Pharmaceuticals in this project cannot be overstated, as they play a crucial role in the collaborative research outcomes.

Key Highlights of the Research

1. Raw Material Selection: The academic team at Sunsho Pharmaceuticals identified a group of flavonoids derived from citrus fruits, which have high antioxidant properties and compatibility with ascorbic acid. The promising candidates selected include lemon, bergamot, jabara, and green mandarin.

2. Development of Composite Extracts: POLA’s research and development team partnered with Sunsho Pharmaceuticals to create composite extracts that enhance the efficacy of ascorbic acid. Preliminary testing at Sunsho’s Innovation Center demonstrated that combining flavonoids can improve the persistence of ascorbic acid.

3. Technical Support for Cell-Level Oxidative Stress Testing: Sunsho Pharmaceuticals provided technical assistance in conducting cell experiments, supporting the protocol designed by POLA. This resulted in the successful acquisition of data showing that the composite extracts could suppress the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in epidermal cells, thus offering cellular protection.

Through comprehensive assistance from Sunsho Pharmaceuticals, this collaboration has led to the discovery that the composite extract enhances antioxidant power beyond that of ascorbic acid alone, effectively protecting cells from oxidative stress.

Insights from Sunsho Pharmaceuticals

Yoshiharu Matahei, Executive Officer and Head of the Research and Development Division at Sunsho Pharmaceuticals, remarked, “The success of this project stems from the synergistic research capabilities of POLA and our extensive knowledge in raw material exploration and technical validation. Our ability to collaborate from the initial stages of product development has been vital. We believe that sharing a vision from the starting line is essential for future health food OEMs.”

Matahei emphasized the importance of forming dedicated teams rather than relying on traditional sales processes. The collaborative approach, which includes professionals from various domains—planning, development, academia, quality, and production—enables a deeper understanding of customer aspirations and market dynamics. As a result, they can offer proposals that not only meet but exceed customer expectations.

The Future of Health Food Development

In light of the rapidly evolving health food market, which faces regulatory changes and intensified competition, OEM manufacturers are required to move beyond merely executing directives. They must take on the role of a responsible partner, working alongside customers to conceptualize and realize shared value. Sunsho Pharmaceuticals is committed to supporting these challenges through its co-creation model.

Conclusion

The research presented at the upcoming conference will highlight the innovative approaches taken by Sunsho and POLA, providing insights into developing effective skincare materials that balance immediate and sustained antioxidant effects. The results underline a new strategy for skin protection, demonstrating that combining powerful antioxidant components can lead to remarkable achievements in health and beauty.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Kenichi Fujisaku
Public Relations and Outreach
Email: [email protected]

About Sunsho Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd.

• - Location: Azzuhara 1468, Fujin, Shizuoka, Japan
• - Representative: President Akira Imamura
• - Founded: November 1993
• - Capital: 1.23 billion yen
• - Sales: 28.6 billion yen (fiscal year ending March 2025)
• - Employees: 830 (as of April 2025)
• - Business Focus: Planning, development, and contract manufacturing of health foods, pharmaceuticals, general foods, and miscellaneous goods.
• - Company Website: Sunsho Pharmaceuticals