Plant-derived peptide and organic acid antifungal agents
Innovative antifungal agents combining plant-derived peptides with organic acids for food-grade applications. This solution leverages synergistic effects for enhanced effectiveness against yeast and mold, offering a cost-effective and safe alternative with minimal regulatory hurdles.
Overview
This research proposes the development of antifungal agents by combining peptides derived from cost-effective, protein-rich plants with selected organic acids. The solution aims to provide a food-grade antifungal option that is both effective and safe, avoiding the need for new ingredient registrations and minimizing biosafety concerns. The combination is expected to exhibit enhanced antifungal activity through synergism, making it ideal for various food applications.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Derived from sustainable and cost-effective plants such as duckweed and Azolla.
- Utilizes organic acids like citric, acetic, anisic, and levulinic acid for enhanced synergistic effects.
- Effective against fungi such as Candida albicans, Zygosaccharomyces rouxii, and Aspergillus brasilensis.
- Preliminarily screened using ISO11930 methods showing promising results.
Applications:
- Potential use in food preservation to inhibit yeast and mold growth.
- Can be repurposed from cosmeceutical applications to food-grade solutions.
Technology readiness level
The current development stage is at TRL 3, involving active research and proof of concept. Future plans include further validation through checkerboard assays, stability testing across pH and temperature ranges, and pilot production of peptides. Partnership support is sought for regulatory guidance, funding, and application-specific testing.
About Lipidware Sdn Bhd
Lipidware Sdn Bhd is a Malaysian biotechnology company founded in 2017 as a university startup from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) through the Putra Science Park InnoHub Programme. The company specializes in translating academic research into commercialized skincare solutions, most notably its REMDII brand. Developed by researchers in biotechnology and biochemistry, the company’s core innovation involves a patented bioactive delivery system that utilizes full-spectrum tocotrienols—a form of Vitamin E—to provide targeted anti-inflammatory and barrier-repair properties for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. This research-driven approach includes rigorous independent testing and ethics-approved human clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy as a steroid-free alternative for individuals of all ages.
Beyond product development, Lipidware plays a significant role in community education and support through the Malaysia Eczema Support Community (MESC), which provides resources and guidance for patients and caregivers. The company’s efforts bridge the gap between clinical science and practical health management, addressing skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and actinic keratosis. Through its commitment to real science, Lipidware has earned numerous national and international accolades for innovation and commercialization, successfully moving university-backed breakthroughs from the laboratory to pharmacy shelves to improve patient quality of life.
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