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Probiotic Innovation for PMS Relief: LAB Biotech and Cosmo Bio

In an effort to improve women's health, LAB Biotech Co., based in Sapporo, Japan, has collaborated with Cosmo Bio Co., a leading supplier of research reagents in Tokyo, to explore the effects of their proprietary probiotic strain, Pediococcus sp. KB-1, on premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Their research has concluded that this unique strain can effectively alleviate emotional and physical discomfort associated with PMS, leading to a joint patent application for its new uses.

Understanding PMS and Its Impact

Many Japanese women, approximately 70-80%, report experiencing some form of discomfort before menstruation. Among those aged 20 to 40, roughly 5.3% suffer from serious PMS symptoms that significantly impact their daily lives. These symptoms, which can include depression, irritability, and motivation loss, may lead to a diagnosis of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) for some women.

This situation highlights a broader societal issue; as more women participate in the workforce, the negative effects of PMS and PMDD translate into considerable losses in human resources. While current treatments primarily involve consultations and medications such as SSRIs, there is a growing demand for non-drug approaches that can be integrated into daily routines.

Introducing Pediococcus sp. KB-1

The probiotic strain, Pediococcus sp. KB-1, was isolated from white turnips in Hokkaido, Japan. LAB Biotech has been conducting extensive research on this strain, which has demonstrated immune-enhancing and anti-allergic properties, as well as the ability to withstand gastric acid. Prior to this joint study, it was discovered that the KB-1 strain has a high capacity to metabolize soybean isoflavones into an easily absorbed aglycone form, a finding that will be addressed in a separate patent application.

Soybean isoflavones are known to mimic female hormones and are believed to assist in alleviating PMS symptoms, although they are typically not easily absorbed in their standard forms.

Joint Research Findings

The joint research aimed to evaluate how effectively the KB-1 strain enhances the absorption of soybean isoflavones to improve PMS symptoms. Women aged between 20 and 49 who experienced PMS were given capsules containing live KB-1 for one month. Surveys were administered before and after treatment during their luteal phase.

The results showed significant improvements in scores for various psychological symptoms, including feelings of sadness and lack of motivation. The findings demonstrate the potential of directly consuming Pediococcus probiotics to alleviate PMS-related discomfort, a rare clinical report in global research.

LAB Biotech and Cosmo Bio have officially announced their joint patent application, emphasizing the potential impact of this probiotic on women's mental health. This could herald a significant advancement in enhancing the quality of life (QOL) for women.

The Significance of the Patent

The discovery of Pediococcus’s role in improving PMS symptoms is noteworthy, particularly given the challenges many women face, such as mood swings and feelings of lethargy. With one in twenty women substantially affected, the focus on preventative and daily habits offers a revolutionary solution.

Future Directions

Plans are underway to expand clinical data and explore functional food applications, including the joint development of supplements aimed at combating PMS and PMDD.

Comments from Key Stakeholders

Mutsumi Murakami, CEO of LAB Biotech:
"PMS and PMDD should not be endured in silence; they are societal issues that warrant scientific intervention. Our findings regarding KB-1's impact on mental symptoms hold significant promise for improving women's quality of life. Through our collaboration with Cosmo Bio, we aim to implement a solution born in Japan on a global scale."

Nobuhiro Shibayama, President of Cosmo Bio:
"The results of this collaborative research provide a new alternative to address unique health challenges for women. By utilizing the power of probiotics, we contribute to a society where everyone can thrive in their individuality. This aligns with our vision to co-create future value through the power of life sciences."

About LAB Biotech

LAB Biotech is a certified startup established from Hokkaido University, focusing on the development of novel probiotics. The company has cataloged over 900 unique strains of probiotics, assessing their functional properties and currently delving into the characteristics of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) released by probiotics.

Company Overview

• - Name: LAB Biotech Co., Ltd.
• - Representative: Mutsumi Murakami
• - Headquarters: 2-12-2 Kita 21-jo Nishi, Sapporo City, Hokkaido
• - Business Activities: (1) Research and development of probiotics and their metabolites, (2) Consultation services for new probiotic development, (3) Manufacturing and sales of probiotic and food raw materials, and (4) Contract testing for functional materials.

About Cosmo Bio

Cosmo Bio specializes in providing reagents and instruments required for life science research, catering to pharmaceutical companies, universities, and research institutions. They stock over ten million products from approximately 500 suppliers worldwide, and they also engage in the manufacturing and distribution of proprietary reagents and instruments. Their commitment lies in supporting researchers in achieving impactful scientific results.

Company Overview

• - Name: Cosmo Bio Co., Ltd.
• - Representative: Nobuhiro Shibayama
• - Headquarters: 2-20 Toyo 2-chome, Koto-ku, Tokyo
• - Business Activities: Procurement, manufacturing, and sales of research reagents and instruments in the life sciences field.