Methods and compositions to enhance endogenous igf production and their uses

Abstract

An extract and procedure for extracting the polar constituents from plants of the Family Brassicaceae, specifically but not limited to the genus Lepidium. The extract has increased polar and decreased lipidic constituent concentrations with the ability to promote the expression and production of insulin-like growth factor. The extract makes the product more amenable to use in preparations for use in conditions that are associated with reduced insulin-like growth factor levels in humans and animals, including growth, muscle mass, strength and repair, arthritis, bone formation and osteoporosis, dysmobility in the elderly, improved liver and gastrointestinal function, cachexia, fertility, fetal and neonatal growth restriction, aquaculture and animal farming.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of Invention [0002] Aging, compromised growth and certain disease states are associated with a decline in levels of insulin-like growth factor (“IGF”). This deficit leads to morbidity, compromised quality of life, growth restriction and increased risk for death. While growth hormone primarily regulates the hepatic production of IGF, options focused on elevating tissue production of IGF are not available. [0003] By contrast, there are a wealth of approaches to reduce IGF production at these sites including hypoxia, aging, cytokines, matrix metalloproteases, infection and heightened immunity. [0004] IGF is highly conserved and serves comparable roles in many species. It is a primary determinant of growth in the young, provides an anabolic effect and enhances muscle tone and strength, as well as maintains and promotes cartilage and bone health, quality and density. IGF functions to regulate the tissue uptake of glucose from whence its name is...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] Given that suppressed IGF is a critical contributor to the complications and pathology of numerous disease states and the aging process, a new approach that enhances IGF levels provides a significant improvement in how these conditions are managed. The methods and compositions described herein concentrate the desired bioactive constituents with the ability to promote IGF and provide solutions to these conditions.

[0013] The present invention also describes methods that isolate and concentrate the polar, non-lipidic components of Maca that promote levels of IGF. In comparison, it offers a distinct advantage over the parent botanical and other extraction methods that concentrate lipidic components for other applications. Additionally, the invention teaches new methods and therapies for addressing states or complications associated with disease or aging.

Problems solved by technology

Nevertheless there are limited opportunities to restore or raise suppressed or inadequate IGF levels.

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