Functional material derived from natural substances and use thereof

Abstract

[Problem] The purpose of the present invention is to place emphasis on so-called upcycling in the selection of materials derived from natural substances and to provide a material that has an antiglycation suppressing action (hereinafter referred to as "AGEs production suppressing action") that focuses on glycation reactions of proteins within the body and can be used in agents for topical use such as cosmetics for which skin affinity is a concern and in food and beverage ingredients for which nutrition is a concern. [Solution] The present invention can solve this problem by making it possible to obtain an active constituent that has desirable functionality and is rich in vitamin D2 and amino acids by irradiating white Auricularia polytricha produced by mutation of Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc. with ultraviolet B waves and processing the result under prescribed conditions.

Description

Functional materials derived from natural products and their uses

[0001] The present invention relates to a functional material discovered based on the specificity of white wood ear fungus, which is produced by mutation of wood ear fungus (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.), and its uses. More specifically, the present invention relates to a material selected from natural products that emphasizes upcycling, has an anti-glycation inhibitory effect (hereinafter referred to as "AGE production inhibitory effect") that focuses on the glycation reaction of proteins in the body, and is used in external preparations such as cosmetics that take into consideration skin affinity, and in food and beverages that take into consideration nutritional aspects.

[0002] The ancient human desire to "maintain youthfulness forever" has given rise to what is known as "anti-aging medicine," and medical systems have developed to combat the aging process and its causes. In recent years, glycation has attracted attention as one of the risk factors for aging. Glycation refers to the non-enzymatic chemical reaction between sugar and protein (amino acids), and the substances produced by this chemical reaction are generally called AGEs (advanced glycation end products).

[0003] Protein glycation is said to occur even in healthy individuals, but recent findings have revealed that this glycation accelerates due to ultraviolet light and aging, leading to the production and accumulation of advanced glycation end products (hereinafter simply referred to as "AGEs"). Diseases associated with recent changes in lifestyle and diet are also risk factors that cannot be overlooked. For example, people with diabetes are at particularly high risk, and are prone to the accumulation of AGEs, which causes various aging phenomena to accelerate.

[0004] AGEs are accompanied by the hardening and denaturation of proteins, and their progression leads to a decline in the function of biological tissues, raising concerns about various health effects. Moreover, since proteins are present in body tissues such as the brain, organs, skin, scalp, hair, nails, and blood, the production and accumulation of AGEs naturally affects the entire body. Collagen, a type of protein, accounts for approximately 30% of body weight, 40% of which is found in the skin (including eyelid skin), and 10 to 20% in bones and cartilage. Collagen is also present in blood vessels, the scalp, and organs, and glycation reactions occur in each of these areas.

[0005] Elastin, a type of protein that is as important in the body as collagen, is a fibrous component that provides elasticity by connecting collagen in a mesh-like structure, and is responsible for giving elasticity to the skin. Therefore, both collagen and elastin are directly affected by AGEs production. The specific effects of AGEs production, especially on the skin, blood vessels, and scalp, are as follows:

[0006] Specifically, in the skin (including eyelid skin, hereafter referred to synonymously), glycation of proteins such as collagen and elastin fibers occurs, triggering a biological reaction that destroys the collagen fiber structure that maintains skin firmness. Enzymes (collagenase) that inhibit collagen synthesis are also activated. This causes the skin to lose its normal elasticity, lose its firmness and luster, and discoloration, resulting in the accumulation of waste products in skin cells. This leads to the so-called yellowing and darkening of the skin, resulting in a loss of skin clarity. Furthermore, while poor nutritional balance is often the cause of skin problems during dieting, continued unreasonable dieting not only damages the stratum corneum, which functions as a barrier, losing its moisture-retaining properties, but also accelerates the loss of elasticity due to glycation. Dark circles become more prominent in the eyelid area, and eyelashes lose their elasticity, firmness, and luster.

[0007] AGEs in the blood have a high affinity and adhesiveness to blood vessel cells, and tend to accumulate on the vessel walls. When AGEs adhere to the vessel walls, active oxygen is generated, which oxidizes NO (nitric oxide), causing a deterioration in blood flow and leading to diseases of the lipid metabolism system.

[0008] The scalp, like the skin, has a dermis layer. When AGEs crosslink in the dermis layer of the scalp, or when keratin (a protein), the main component of hair, is glycated and AGEs accumulate, hair loss, breakage, and graying increase. Furthermore, scalp firmness is produced by elastin, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate, which are present in the dermis layer.

[0009] Glycation also has a significant impact on hair. As glycation of collagen and elastin present in the dermis progresses, the dermis hardens, adversely affecting secretory glands, hair follicles, blood vessels, and other tissues. As a result, hair growth is weakened, further adversely affecting hair quality by causing loss of firmness and luster. The hair papilla at the root controls hair growth. In response to stimulation from the papilla, hair matrix cells divide and keratinize to form hair, which then elongates from the scalp. When AGEs accumulate in the hair root, the function of the papilla and hair matrix cells is restricted, resulting in insufficient hair growth and hair loss. Eyelashes can be considered body hair growing at the edge of the eyelid. Similar to hair, glycation in the eyelid skin causes degradation of proteins such as collagen and elastin, resulting in loss of elasticity, firmness, and luster in the eyelashes and a slower regeneration cycle.

[0010] In addition, melanocytes are located adjacent to hair matrix cells, and when hair matrix cells divide, they absorb melanin pigment from the melanocytes to produce black or brown hair.However, when AGEs accumulate in melanocytes, they are unable to supply enough melanin pigment, which can also cause gray hair.

[0011] Thus, from the viewpoint of scalp, hair and eyelash care, anti-glycation (measures against glycation), that is, measures to inhibit the production of AGEs, is attracting attention.

[0012] When we are young, collagen synthesis enzymes are actively secreted, resulting in abundant collagen production and maintaining the normal condition of skin, blood vessels, and scalp. However, as we age, collagen synthesis enzymes decrease and AGE production progresses. As we progress through this stage, localized care such as UV protection and moisturizing measures is no longer sufficient, and whole-body care, including diet and drink, becomes essential. The same is true for elastin.

[0013] There are prior art technologies developed from the perspective of actively ingesting collagen and promoting its synthesis. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that ingesting large amounts of collagen protein or its hydrolysate can promote biosynthesis of biological collagen and improve various diseases associated with decreased metabolism of biological collagen. Patent Document 2 discloses a skin activator that effectively improves skin turnover by combining essential ingredients such as Eucommia or its extract, and ginseng or its extract with a selection of deoxyribonucleic acid, chondroitin sulfate, collagen or its hydrolysate, and Job's tears extract. Patent Document 3 discloses that an oral hair growth agent containing Laminaria japonica rhizoids, Hydrangea officinalis, Korean ginseng, and collagen can promote the function of hair matrix cells and exhibit hair growth effects. Patent Document 4 discloses a collagen synthesis promoter composition that utilizes specific plants to enhance the ability to promote collagen synthesis in the body, thereby activating the metabolism of biological tissues. However, while these technologies focus on applied materials derived from natural products, none of them provide a fundamental solution that focuses on glycation reactions like the present invention, and the effects they achieve are insufficient.

[0014] Patent documents 5 to 7 are examples of applications for AGE production inhibitors. Patent documents 5 and 7 disclose medical uses. Patent document 6 discloses solutions to problems related to cosmetic aging, particularly from the perspective of dermatology, mainly improving skin quality such as wrinkles, age spots, dullness, and sagging skin. However, none of these are intended for application to the skin or hair growth agents for the scalp and hair from the perspective of anti-glycation.

[0015] On the other hand, when we look at food ingredients, dietary habits have undergone various changes along with changes in lifestyles, and needs are becoming more diverse. In terms of food ingredients, in light of the growing health consciousness of the times, expectations are high for functional food ingredients, including nutritional benefits, while also expecting various physiological activities, and mushrooms are attracting more attention than ever before when it comes to anti-aging. In this regard, the applicant focused on the unique properties of white wood ear fungus, which is produced by mutation of wood ear fungus (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.), and invented a multifunctional additive (Patent Document 8).

[0016] There are cases where wood ear fungus has been applied and developed as a health food containing vitamin D (e.g., Patent Document 9). However, unlike the present invention, it is not a nutritional food focusing on anti-glycation effects, and is insufficient as a material that meets consumers' expectations.

[0017] As described above, taking into consideration the versatility of this material for consumption and application to the skin, it would be extremely significant to provide an anti-aging material derived from natural products that has the effect of inhibiting the production of AGEs.

[0018] JP 7-278012 A JP 9-67262 A JP 2013-116887 A JP 2005-255527 A JP 2009-96773 A JP 2013-139392 A JP 2014-37399 A JP 2020-124178 A JP 2022-121877 A

[0019] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned unsolved problems, and aims to provide a functional material discovered based on the specificity of the white wood ear fungus, which is produced by mutation of the wood ear fungus (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.), and its uses. More specifically, the present invention aims to provide a material that, in selecting natural materials, places emphasis on so-called upcycling, has an anti-glycation inhibitory effect (hereinafter referred to as "AGE production inhibitory effect") focusing on the glycation reaction of proteins in the body, and can be used in external preparations such as cosmetics that take into account skin affinity, and in food and beverages that take into account nutritional aspects.

[0020] The present inventors continued their search for materials to solve the above-mentioned problems, and as a result, they discovered that white wood ear fungus produced by mutation of wood ear fungus (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) exhibits the desired effects, thereby completing the present invention. That is, according to the present invention, the desired object is achieved by the following (1) to (6) features: (1) A functional material derived from white wood ear fungus produced by mutation of wood ear fungus (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) and having an AGEs production inhibitory effect. (2) The functional material derived from white wood ear fungus according to (1), characterized in that it contains vitamin D2 (ergocarcinoferol) obtained by irradiating white wood ear fungus produced by mutation of wood ear fungus (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) with ultraviolet-B rays, and free amino acids that remain stable in the white wood ear fungus even after irradiation with ultraviolet-B rays. (3) A functional material derived from white wood ear mushroom according to (2), characterized in that the free amino acid components consist of at least histidine, serine, arginine, glycine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, alanine, γ-aminobutyric acid, proline, cysteine, lysine, tyrosine, methionine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, and tryptophan. The functional material derived from white wood ear mushroom, characterized in that it contains vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and amino acids obtained by irradiating white wood ear mushroom produced by mutation of wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) with ultraviolet B rays. (4) A food or beverage containing the functional material according to (1) and / or (2) as an active ingredient. (5) A topical agent containing the functional material according to (1) and / or (2) as an active ingredient. (6) The functional material, food, beverage, and topical agent derived from white wood ear mushroom according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the part where the functional material derived from white wood ear mushroom is used is the ferrule.

[0021] The present invention relates to a functional ingredient derived from the white wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) produced by mutation of the wood ear mushroom. Because the functional ingredient also has the effect of inhibiting AGE production, it is highly versatile and can be used as an additive in a form acceptable for consumption as an anti-aging measure or in a form acceptable for skin application. Furthermore, the material of the present invention was developed with nutritional consideration in mind. In particular, irradiation with ultraviolet-B rays produces abundant vitamin D2 (ergocarcinoferol), and the free amino acids stably present in the white wood ear mushroom are maintained even after irradiation with ultraviolet-B rays. Therefore, the material is suitable for use in anti-aging supplements. Furthermore, a notable feature of the present invention is the unique properties of the mutated white wood ear mushroom, in addition to its novel functionality. In particular, because it contains viscous components, it is useful as a material for external preparations such as food and beverages and cosmetics, and contributes to the creation of products that utilize its known multifunctionality, such as antioxidant activity, moisturizing, elasticity, leavening, and emulsifying functions. The viscosity characteristics vary greatly depending on the part used, and the use of the ferrule allows for a variety of new forms of application to food and beverages. Furthermore, while the ferrule has traditionally been discarded or composted as an unused portion, this application is extremely meaningful as a so-called upcycled material, using the entire ferrule to its fullest extent from the perspective of food waste.

[0022] 1 is a diagram showing the process of utilizing unused parts of the present invention. 2 is a diagram showing the results of an AGEs production inhibition test. 3 is a diagram showing the basic mechanism of the AGEs production inhibition (inhibition) effect. 4 is a diagram comparing the amount of change in vitamin D2 between white wood ear fungus and wood ear fungus. 5 is a diagram comparing the water absorption and water retention capacity of white wood ear fungus and wood ear fungus, and the water retention capacity of white wood ear fungus and sodium hyaluronate. 6 is a diagram showing the manufacturing process of white wood ear fungus extract when two types of raw materials (dried raw materials and raw materials) are used.

[0023] This invention is a multifunctional ingredient that expands the applicability of white wood ear fungus, which is produced by mutation of wood ear fungus (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.), focusing on anti-aging. Its form of use is not limited, and it can be used as the material itself, crushed material, extracts, etc. From the perspective of upcycling, it can be used not only for the main body but also for all previously unused parts of the base.

[0024] The pre-processing steps before production are to first wash the white wood ear mushrooms after harvesting, then dry them at a maximum temperature of 70°C for 5 hours, and then blanch them for 4 minutes. The processing temperature and drying time before blanching are optional depending on the purpose of use. If only the base is used, it is washed with water as described above and then cut.

[0025] When commercializing the powder, a commonly used grinder may be used, but to prevent browning after processing, instantaneous grinding is preferably performed under a nitrogen atmosphere or using a low-temperature dry grinder (for example, the Centri Dry Mill method manufactured by Micropowtech Co., Ltd.). The size of the powder can be varied depending on the intended use, and the method disclosed in Patent Document 8, which was previously invented by the applicant, can be adopted. However, when using only the ferrule for a jelly or side dish, it is preferable to process it for a short time, for example, using a food processor, in order to maintain the unique texture, such as its thick consistency and crunchy texture.

[0026] When the extract is to be used for various purposes, it is preferable to extract it with hot water after crushing in terms of viscosity adjustment and extraction efficiency, but the conditions for this extraction are not limited.

[0027] According to the present invention, white wood ear fungus, which is produced by mutation of wood ear fungus (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.), has been found to have anti-glycation activity (AGE production inhibitory activity), providing a functional material with significant anti-aging properties. As already mentioned in the background art, glycation refers to the non-enzymatic chemical reaction between sugar and protein (amino acids), and since this glycation reaction triggers various diseases in the body, inhibiting it is of great significance.

[0028] Furthermore, according to the present invention, it has been found that by irradiating white wood ear mushrooms produced by mutation of wood ear mushrooms (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) with ultraviolet-B radiation, vitamin D2 (ergocarcinoferol) and free amino acids that remain stable in the white wood ear mushrooms even after irradiation with ultraviolet-B radiation are abundantly contained without decomposition or the like. Here, vitamin D2 is a product resulting from the conversion of ergosterol, a provitamin D. There are many component species of amino acids, including essential amino acids, and specifically, free amino acids composed of at least histidine, serine, arginine, glycine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, alanine, γ-aminobutyric acid, proline, cysteine, lysine, tyrosine, methionine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, and tryptophan are abundantly contained.

[0029] These findings are highly significant in the following two respects: (1) It is possible to expand the applications of this material as a nutritional ingredient. (2) It is expected to play a complementary role in AGE inhibition. Point (1) above could be applied to, for example, nutritional supplements for nursing care. Because it contains viscosity-retaining components, it can be cooked and processed into easy-to-ingest forms such as jelly or liquid, making it suitable for use as a swallowing diet. Furthermore, since the material also contains valine, leucine, and isoleucine, which are contained in so-called BCAA supplements, it is expected to be used as a supplement. Point (2) above, considering that AGEs are caused by binding with amino acids in the body, can replenish amino acids while suppressing AGEs, thereby achieving the so-called dual effect of replenishing deficient amino acids while suppressing the quantitative loss of amino acids. This is highly rational and significant from a metabolic mechanism perspective.

[0030] That is, according to claims 1 to 3 of the present invention, the following functional materials are provided: (1) A functional material having an AGEs production inhibitory effect derived from the white wood ear mushroom produced by mutation of the wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.). (2) The functional material derived from the white wood ear mushroom according to (1), characterized in that it contains vitamin D2 (ergocarcinoferol) obtained by irradiating the white wood ear mushroom produced by mutation of the wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) with ultraviolet-B rays, and free amino acids that remain stable in the white wood ear mushroom even after irradiation with ultraviolet-B rays. (3) A functional material derived from white wood ear mushroom according to (2), characterized in that the free amino acid component species are composed of at least histidine, serine, arginine, glycine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, alanine, γ-aminobutyric acid, proline, cysteine, lysine, tyrosine, methionine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine and tryptophan.

[0031] It is possible to provide applied products based on the functionality discovered in the present invention, and of course, it is also possible to provide applied products that include the functionality disclosed in Patent Document 8. As already mentioned, the substance itself, the pulverized product, or an extract can all be used as desired, but in the case of an extract, it is tasteless, odorless, colorless, and transparent, and its viscosity can be adjusted appropriately. Therefore, when wheat flour is substituted for rice flour, it can be used as a substitute for egg white to obtain the same texture, making it an effective ingredient for anti-allergic foods. Alternatively, as an egg substitute, it can be used as an ingredient in so-called plant-based foods.

[0032] The pulverized material possesses swelling and maintenance functions, emulsification properties, and elasticity-imparting properties. Therefore, when applied to food, it can provide processed foods with a texture similar to that of mochi (rice cake). Adding it to mochi products or processed foods made with rice flour can provide excellent products that do not change in hardness or softness over time. In other words, as described above, when added as a food ingredient, it not only improves the texture of existing processed foods, but also maintains their quality and shelf life. Furthermore, white wood ear fungus is known to contain abundant dietary fiber. Therefore, the water-retaining properties of dietary fiber help maintain moisture and maintain the softness of mochi and bread dough. The extract of the present invention has excellent penetration and affinity into food ingredients, making it effective, for example, in improving the quality of tough, sinewy meat. Interestingly, in addition to being added as an ingredient, it can also be used as a quality preservative. Specifically, by wrapping the powder of the present invention in a moisture-absorbing packaging material to form a small pouch and including the pouch with processed food, it can absorb excess moisture and exhibit anti-mold effects.

[0033] Applications to foods are not particularly limited, but specific examples include drinks, nutritional supplements such as supplements, foods for specified health uses, foods with functional claims, health foods, and various general processed foods such as soft drinks, soups, chiffon cakes, roll cakes, pizzas, pound cakes, dorayaki (Japanese pancakes), steamed buns, Chinese buns, dumplings, shumai (steamed dumplings), noodles, donuts, tear-and-tear bread, macarons, cookies, puddings, jellies, bavarois, candies, gummies, gum, ice cream, and gelato. Among these examples, the composition is useful for thickening fluid foods such as soft drinks and soups, and for adjusting the texture of thixotropic foods such as puddings, jellies, and bavarois. The composition is useful for adjusting the texture, such as the feel on the tongue, of solid or semi-solid foods such as candies, gummies, gum, ice cream, and gelato. For chiffon cake, roll cake, pizza, pound cake, dorayaki, manju, Chinese bun, gyoza, shumai, noodles, donuts, tear-and-tear bread, and the like, this is useful not only for adding elasticity to the dough and adjusting the texture and mouthfeel, but also for adjusting the texture and mouthfeel of the contents when these foods contain bean paste or other ingredients. Other uses include processed products obtained by directly blending with meat or fresh seafood such as hamburger steak and kamaboko, and smoked white wood ear mushrooms themselves are also within the scope of the present invention. Among these, processed products using grains, fish meat, meat, etc., and processed products using flour such as wheat and rice are particularly preferred, as they fully utilize the properties of the material of the present invention.

[0034] In terms of form, the functional ingredient of the present invention can be marketed and distributed as an active ingredient or premix for formulation into forms acceptable for consumption, such as capsules, tablets, granules, powders, syrups, liquids, and jellies. A wide variety of liquid and solid excipients acceptable for oral administration can be used, but careful consideration must be given to the selection of sweeteners, taking into account the anti-glycation effect. Sweeteners that are resistant to glycation should be selected, and preferred examples include sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, maltitol, erythritol, lactitol, xylitol, trehalose, and stevia, as well as monk fruit extract and the synthetic sweetener aspartame. According to claim 4 of the present invention, there is provided a food or beverage containing the functional ingredient specified in claim 1 and / or the functional ingredient described in claim 2 as an active ingredient.

[0035] As oral supplements such as food and drink, known tonics and blood circulation promoters may be used in combination as appropriate within the scope that does not impair the effects of the present invention.

[0036] For example, examples of tonics include soft-shelled turtle extract, viper extract, bezoar tincture, Rokujou fluid extract, Eleuthero extract, Eucommia extract, and Kashu extract.

[0037] Examples of blood circulation promoters include glucosyl hesperidin, citrulline, vitamin E nicotinate, nicotinic acid, nicotinamide, benzyl nicotinate, ginger tincture, capsicum tincture, and rosemarinic acid.

[0038] When applied to the formulation of cosmetics, etc., its emulsifying properties, swelling function (base molding ability) and its maintenance function allow formulations to be designed with raw material compositions that are less irritating to the skin, making it possible to provide formulations that can be used by people with sensitive skin.In addition, its AGEs inhibitory effect makes it useful for preventing skin aging.

[0039] The functional ingredient of the present invention can be formulated as an active ingredient in forms acceptable for local or systemic skin application, such as creams, ointments, emulsions, liniments, pastes, lotions, milky lotions, essences, gels, powder, liquid, and solid bath additives, cleansers, shampoos, rinses, conditioners, and tonics. As described above, the excellent emulsifying properties of the white wood ear fungus of the present invention allow the basic performance of emulsion bases to be ensured without the use of surfactants, providing formulations that can be widely used by consumers with sensitive skin. Furthermore, the powder itself is white and does not impair the desired appearance. Furthermore, in transparent formulations, when dissolved in water, it can be formulated as a colorless, transparent extract with high moisturizing effects, without compromising the appearance of the formulation. Furthermore, high viscosity can be achieved by adjusting the concentration as desired, thereby reducing the use of, for example, thickeners and other additives.

[0040] The topical preparation of the present invention includes forms that are acceptable in the categories of pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, and cosmetics, and the dosage form is not particularly limited as long as it does not impair the object of the present invention.

[0041] A wide range of liquid and solid ingredients acceptable for skin application can be used as the base (excipient) for formulation design. In the case of emulsion-type bases, the excellent emulsifying properties of the material of the present invention eliminate the need for surfactants, making it a very convenient material for designing low-irritation formulations. Even if surfactant use is unavoidable, the overall amount used can be reduced. Furthermore, as already mentioned, the extract derived from the material of the present invention has a unique viscosity, and when used in combination with a thickener, it exerts a synergistic gelling ability, allowing formulations to be designed that maintain elasticity. The strength of elasticity can be adjusted as desired by changing the type and amount of thickener used. Suitable thickeners include gum arabic, carrageenan, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, carob gum, quince seed, casein, dextrin, gelatin, sodium pectinate, sodium allaginate, methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, CMC, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, PVA, PVM, PVP, sodium polyacrylate, carboxyvinyl polymer, locust bean gum, guar gum, tamarind gum, dialkyldimethylammonium cellulose sulfate, xanthan gum, AlMg silicate, bentonite, and hectorite. Various general-purpose additives, such as functional ingredients, humectants, and antioxidants, can be added as needed without impairing the objectives of the present invention. That is, according to claim 5 of the present invention, there is provided an external preparation characterized by incorporating the functional material specified in claim 1 and / or the functional material described in claim 2 as an active ingredient.

[0042] Examples of moisturizing agents include polyhydric alcohols such as urea, glycerin, propylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, sorbitol, mannitol, polyethylene glycol, and dipropylene glycol, ceramides, heparinoids, sodium hyaluronate, PCA sodium, collagen, collagen peptides, elastin, chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, fucoidan, trimethylglycine, betaine, and seaweed extract (algae colloid). The use of such moisturizing agents is a useful option for formulating products intended to alleviate rough skin that may occur during dieting. While there are no particular restrictions on the collagen, collagen peptides, particularly oligopeptides (fewer than 10 peptides) composed of "proline-hydroxyproline" and / or "hydroxyproline-glycine," and atelocollagens are preferred in terms of absorbability. Hyaluronic acid is a high molecular weight polysaccharide formed by a beta-1,4 bond between N-acetylglucosamine and glucuronic acid. A low molecular weight product (average molecular weight of approximately 100,000) obtained by hydrolyzing hyaluronic acid with an enzyme such as hyaluronidase is preferably used. Elastin is an elastic fiber that supports collagen fibers and is isolated from mammals such as pigs and cows, and fish such as tuna and salmon. Considering bioabsorbability, elastin with an average molecular weight of approximately 100,000 obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis with protease such as elastase, pepsin, or pronase, or by acid hydrolysis, is preferably used. Furthermore, an average molecular weight of approximately 20,000 is preferable for ease of solubilization. Chondroitin sulfate is chondroitin 6-sulfate, chondroitin 4-sulfate, or a mixture thereof. While the molecular weight is not particularly limited, an average molecular weight of 50,000 is preferred in consideration of bioabsorbability. In the present invention, salts of chondroitin sulfate can also be used, and although the type of salt is not particularly limited, sodium salts or potassium salts are preferred.

[0043] Examples of preservatives include benzoates, sorbates, dehydroacetates, parahydroxybenzoates, benzalkonium chloride, hinokitiol, resorcinol, ethanol, and phenoxyethanol, and it is preferable to use preservatives derived from natural products.

[0044] Examples of antioxidants include dibutylhydroxytoluene, butylhydroxyanisole, propyl gallate, ascorbic acid, etc., and, like preservatives, they are preferably derived from natural products.

[0045] In addition to the active ingredient of the present invention, other functional ingredients commonly used in topical preparations can be arbitrarily blended within the scope that does not impair the effects and purposes of the present invention. Specifically, for example, anti-inflammatory agents such as lysozyme chloride, glycyrrhizinic acid or its salts, allantoin, etc., immunostimulants such as beta-glucan, male hormones (methyltestosterone), glucosyl hesperidin, citrulline, vitamin E nicotinate, nicotinic acid, nicotinic acid amide, benzyl nicotinate, peripheral vasodilators such as ginger tincture, Swertia japonica extract, and capsicum tincture, antibacterial agents such as hinokitiol, benzalkonium chloride, and undecylenic acid, placenta extract, liver extract, oyster extract, Althea extract, Ononis extract, Artemisia capillaris extract, and kin Examples of extracts that can be used include various extracts derived from animals, plants, and microorganisms, such as dacia arborescens extract, red ginseng extract, antler reishi mushroom extract, basho (banana peel) extract, geranium herb extract, butterbur root extract, Japanese lily extract, yarrow extract, dried pumpkin (seed) extract, sage extract, celery extract, soybean extract, thyme extract, tangerine peel extract, Japanese knotweed extract, coltsfoot extract, peony extract, kelp extract, Melissa extract, yuzu extract, resveratrol, and lactic acid bacteria culture extract, as well as extracts of fermented vegetables, fruits, and wild plants (hereinafter referred to as wild plant fermented extract).Examples of raw materials for the wild grass fermented extract include mugwort, Houttuynia cordata, Aloe arborescens, turmeric, ginseng, wolfberry, Job's wort, St. John's wort, Kumazasa, lychee, dandelion root, Reisen's wort, peach leaves, ginkgo leaves, Ejisugusano seeds, carrot, fig leaves, Habu grass, safflower, Eleuthero, Gynostemma pentaphyllum, Luo Han quai, Eucommia leaves, Enmei grass, loquat leaves, Mulukhiya, Goji berry leaves, Seto Kotsubo, Mallotus japonicus, plantain, Tulsi, licorice, pine leaves, Nandina leaves, horsetail, Polygonatum rapum, Dayflower, Japanese begonia tree, Tsuyukuna, Japanese yam, persimmon leaves, and kale. Honeysuckle, Chinese quince, perilla leaves, mandarin orange peel, ginger, mulberry leaves, Chinese orb, kumquat, onion skin, Panax notoginseng, bellflower root, jujube, salacia, chili pepper, yew fruit, red ginseng, rooibos, amla fruit, Centella asiatica, Mucuna pruriens, Muirabuama, warty vine, cat's claw, kelp, funori, mandarin orange, apple, pineapple, grapes, fig, plum, melon, grapefruit, lemon, apricot, carrot, onion, parsley, burdock, garlic, scallion, cabbage, shiitake mushroom, and the like can be appropriately selected and used depending on the purpose.

[0046] Other examples of AGE production inhibitors include extracts from known plants such as flax, Polygonatum odoratum, olive, Asarum, Tilia, Swertia japonica, elderberry, rose, sunflower, Swertia purpurea, saxifrage, and burnet.

[0047] In this invention, the previously unused ferrule part is actively utilized to fully utilize the material. This is upcycling that takes into account so-called food waste. Upcycling often refers to increasing the value of an item by giving new value to waste or unwanted items that have not been actively used. However, this invention discovers the creation of value in the ferrule part that has not been actively utilized. That is, according to claim 6, there are provided functional materials, food and beverages, and topical preparations derived from white wood ear mushrooms, in which the ferrule part is used as the functional material.

[0048] There are many benefits to using the ferrule as a functional ingredient. As shown in Figure 1, after washing and crushing, the ferrule is extracted with hot water, and the extract and residue are separated and used according to the desired purpose. The extract is rich in useful ingredients and can be used directly as a beauty essence or bath additive. To improve shelf life, it can be freeze-dried into special sheet materials, allowing for immediate preparation. The extracted residue, with its unique texture, can also be used in dessert jellies. Both the extract and residue can be provided as functional ingredients rich in vitamin D2 and amino acids by prior exposure to ultraviolet light (UVB irradiation), making them convenient for use as nutritional supplements.

[0049] That is, according to the present invention, the desired object is achieved by the following constitutions (1) to (6): (1) A functional material having an AGEs production inhibitory effect derived from the white wood ear mushroom produced by mutation of the wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.). (2) The functional material derived from the white wood ear mushroom according to (1), characterized in that it contains vitamin D2 (ergocarcinoferol) obtained by irradiating the white wood ear mushroom produced by mutation of the wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) with ultraviolet-B rays, and free amino acids that remain stable in the white wood ear mushroom even after irradiation with ultraviolet-B rays. (3) A functional material derived from white wood ear mushroom according to (2), characterized in that the component species of the free amino acids consist of at least histidine, serine, arginine, glycine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, alanine, γ-aminobutyric acid, proline, cysteine, lysine, tyrosine, methionine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, and tryptophan. (4) A food or beverage characterized in that the functional material according to (1) and / or (2) is blended as an active ingredient. (5) A topical agent characterized in that the functional material according to (1) and / or (2) is blended as an active ingredient. (6) A functional material, food or beverage, and topical agent derived from white wood ear mushroom according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the part to which the functional material derived from white wood ear mushroom is applied is the ferrule.

[0050] The functionality of the present invention will be specifically explained below using examples, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0051] Test Example 1: AGEs Production Inhibitory Effect Test (Test Method) (1) Reagents, Consumables, and Measuring Equipment: Collagen Anti-Glycation Assay Kit (Glucose / Fructose) (Cosmo Bio Co., Ltd.); 96-well plate, F-Bottom MicroCLEAR, Black, TC, Greiner (Green Bio Research); Microplate Reader, SH-9000Lab for Bottom Fluorescence Measurement (Corona Electric Co., Ltd.) (2) Test Sample and Experimental Procedure: Heat-treated powder was used as the sample. The powder was prepared at 0.005, 0.05, 0.5, and 5 mg / mL and used as a sample solution for evaluation. The experimental procedure was as follows: 50 μL of neutralized collagen solution was added to a 96-well plate and incubated overnight at 37°C. Then, 10 μL of aminoguanidine solution and sample solution were added, followed by 50 μL of buffer solution and fructose solution. After stirring, the fluorescence intensity was measured at an excitation wavelength of 370 nm and a fluorescence wavelength of 440 nm, and was defined as I0. Measurements were performed three times a week. The glycated collagen production rate was calculated from the obtained absorbance. The formula is as follows: Glycated collagen production rate (%) = × 100 Fss : Sample Abs of Fructose line Fbs : Sample Abs of Buffer line Fs : Control Abs of Fructose line Fb : Control Abs of Buffer line

[0052] (Results and Discussion) The results of the glycated collagen production rate after three weeks are shown in Figure 2. The percentages are based on the sample concentration, with the blank being taken as 100%. The glycated collagen production rate of white wood ear mushrooms tended to decrease with increasing concentration, and was superior to the inhibition rate of wood ear mushrooms at all concentrations. At 5 mg / mL, the glycated collagen production rate was 10%, the same value as the positive control aminoguanidine (AG). On the other hand, wood ear mushrooms showed a glycated collagen production rate of 59% at 5 mg / mL. These results suggest that white wood ear mushrooms contain more substances that inhibit collagen glycation.

[0053] Figure 3 shows the mechanism of the anti-glycation effect, in which the reaction intermediate 3-deoxyglucosone reacts with compounds with amino groups to inhibit the production of AGEs, thereby preventing glycation and thereby exerting an AGE production inhibitory effect. As will be described later, white wood ear fungus is known to be rich in essential amino acids, and the mechanism of the anti-glycation effect described above suggests that the inhibitory ability of white wood ear fungus is related to the amino acids with amino groups contained in its components. By optimally applying the material of the present invention in external and / or oral forms, the desired effects aimed at by the present invention can be expected.

[0054] Test Example 2: Measurement of Vitamin D2 Content (Test Method) The heat-treated white wood ear mushroom of the present invention was irradiated with ultraviolet B (285 nm) at varying energy amounts (including substantial enhancement), and the change in energy content was observed.

[0055] (Results and Discussion) The results are shown in Table 1. The conditions were set to increase the amount of energy irradiation by ultraviolet B (285 nm) according to settings 1 to 5. Before irradiation, vitamin D2 (ergocarcinoferol) was not present, and only ergosterol, a precursor of vitamin D2, was detected. However, by increasing the irradiation intensity, ergosterol decreased, and vitamin D2 was detected in a manner dependent on the irradiation intensity.

[0056] When the vitamin D2 (ergocarcinoferol) content in samples was measured using heat-treated wood ear mushrooms under the same conditions, the wood ear mushrooms showed the same tendency, but when the absolute amount was compared, it was lower than that of the white wood ear mushrooms, demonstrating the superiority of the material of the present invention (Table 2 and Figure 4).

[0057] <Test Example 3> Measurement of free amino acids (Test method) As shown below, the heat-treated white wood ear mushroom of the present invention and the heat-treated wood ear mushroom as a comparative example were used to measure the types and contents of free amino acids contained in each sample and compare the two.

[0058] (Results and Discussion) The results are shown in Table 3. The amount of free amino acids remained stable even after UV irradiation. Moreover, the total amount was higher in white auricularia than in auricularia.

[0059] <Test Example 4> Water Absorption and Water Retention Capacity Test (1) Comparison with Auricularia japonica 10 g of dried white Auricularia japonica (Shiramitake; registered trademark) was placed in boiling water, the heat was turned off, and the water absorption and water retention were observed. As a result, after 17 hours, it had absorbed water and expanded to approximately 600 g. When the water retention amount was measured after leaving it, it was confirmed that it still retained approximately 45% of its original volume even after 6 days (144 hours), which was significantly better than Auricularia japonica. The results are shown in Table 4 and Figure 5 (top).

[0060] (2) Comparison with sodium hyaluronate Each freeze-dried sample was dispersed in water to a concentration of 0.2%, and 1 mL of the dispersion was impregnated into glass fiber filter paper (ADVANTEC GS-25, φ47 mm) (n=4). After leaving the sample at a temperature of 25°C and a relative humidity of 55% for 8 hours, the water retention capacity was calculated from the remaining water content using the following formula: [Water retention capacity = weight of remaining water after 8 hours / sample weight]

[0061] Using the above procedure, it was confirmed that the water retention capacity of white wood ear fungus was equivalent to that of sodium hyaluronate when compared with sodium hyaluronate. The same excellent water retention performance was also obtained for the previously unused part, the base of the ear. The evaluation results are shown in Figure 5 (bottom). The water retention capacity of each is as follows: 1 Powder 112.6 2 Hot water extract 201.1 3 Pressurized hot water extract 222.3 4 Hot water extract of inedible parts 216.5 5 Sodium hyaluronate 221.0

[0062] As shown in Figure 6, when adding the extract of the present invention, there are cases where dried raw materials are used and cases where raw materials are used, but the conditions are the same when the entire material is used without discarding the ferrule. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the manufacturing process (application example) when using the ferrule, which has not been used in the past, can be applied in various ways. For example, using the extraction residue as a jelly for dessert is a new application that has not been used before. <Formulation Example 1> Lotion Ingredient Name (wt%) 1. White Auricularia Powder 2.00 2. Ascorbic Acid Glucoside 2.00 3. Kojic Acid 1.00 4. Cucumber Extract 2.00 5. Thyme Extract 0.50 6.5% Elastin Hydrolyzed Solution 1.00 7. Purified Water Appropriate Amount

[0063] <Formulation Example 2> Essence Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Allantoin 0.50 2. Placenta extract 0.50 3. White wood ear fungus powder 5.00 4. Purified water appropriate amount

[0064] <Formulation Example 3> Cream Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Retinol 1.00 2. Sodium hyaluronate aqueous solution 2.00 3. Polyethylene glycol 400 3.00 4. White wood ear fungus powder 5.00 5. Stearic acid 5.00 6. Avocado oil 1.00 7. Almond oil 10.00 8. Sodium dl-pyrrolidonecarboxylate solution 5.00 9. Purified water appropriate amount

[0065] <Formulation Example 4> Cream pack Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Resinol 2.00 2. Arbutin 1.00 3. Sodium polyacrylate 5.00 4. White wood ear fungus extract (5% aqueous solution) 5.00 5. Myristic acid 6.00 6. Grapeseed oil 1.00 7. Jojoba oil 3.00 8. Olive oil 2.00 9. Purified water appropriate amount

[0066] <Formulation Example 5> Emulsion Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Retinoic acid 4.00 2. White wood ear fungus powder 3.00 3. Almond oil 4.00 4. Olive oil 15.00 5. Xanthan gum 0.50 6. Purified water appropriate amount

[0067] <Formulation Example 6> Hair Essence Ingredient Name (% by weight) 1. Minoxidil 3.00 2. Ethanol 7.00 3. 1,3-Butylene Glycol 5.00 4. White Auricularia Auricularia Extract (2% aqueous solution) 20.00 5. Purified water appropriate amount

[0068] Formulation Example 7: Body soap Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Potassium myristate 4.50 2. White wood ear fungus extract (4% aqueous solution) 25.00 3. Egg yolk lecithin 3.00 5. Glycol distearate 2.00 6. Dipropylene glycol 2.00 7. Glycerin 1.00 8. Purified water appropriate amount

[0069] <Formulation Example 8> Soap (elastic type) Ingredients (wt%) 1. Glycerin 25.00 2. Potassium cocoyl glycine 8.00 3. Tamarind gum 2.00 4. Pentylene glycol 5.00 5. White wood ear fungus extract (0.5% aqueous solution) 5.00 6. Fucoidan extract derived from mozuku seaweed 1.50 7. Sodium hyaluronate 2.50 8. Hydrolyzed collagen 3.00 9. Purified water appropriate amount

[0070] Formulation Example 9: Jelly drink Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Maltodextrin 4.50 2. High-fructose corn syrup 1.00 3. Citric acid 0.10 5. Gelling agent (thickening polysaccharide) 2.00 6. White wood ear fungus extract (5% aqueous solution) 10.00 (contains 20% extraction residue from the wood ear) 7. Niacin 0.01 8. Purified water appropriate amount

[0071] <Formulation Example 10> Gyuhi Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Glutinous rice starch 22.00 2. White wood ear fungus powder 1.00 3. Sugar 34.00 4. Maltose 10.00 5. Psyllium 0.20 6. Purified water (as needed)

[0072] <Formulation Example 11> Drink Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Ascorbic acid maltoside 0.50 2. White wood ear mushroom extract (4% aqueous solution) 6.00 3. High fructose glucose liquid sugar 2.00 4. Honey 0.50 5. Ascorbic acid 0.30 6. Vitamin B6 0.005 7. Vitamin B12 0.001 8. Isoleucine 0.005 9. Phenylalanine 0.005 10. Guarana extract 0.05 11. Flavor 0.10 12. Purified water appropriate amount

[0073] Formulation Example 12: Pizza dough Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Rice flour 40.00 2. White wood ear mushroom powder 2.00 3. Brown sugar 5.00 4. Potato starch 6.50 5. Dry yeast 1.00 6. Purified water 40.00 7. Olive oil 5.00 8. Salt 0.50

[0074] Formulation Example 13: Protein-containing food Ingredients (% by weight) 1. Pea protein 40.00 2. White wood ear mushroom powder 25.00 3. Brown sugar 4.00 4. Valine 0.50 5. Leucine 1.00 6. Arginine 2.00 7. Tryptophan 0.50 8. Whey 3.00 9. Maltodextrin 24.00

Claims

1. A functional material having an AGEs production inhibitory effect derived from the white wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) produced by mutation of the wood ear mushroom.

2. A functional material derived from the white wood ear mushroom described in claim 1, characterized in that it contains vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) obtained by irradiating the white wood ear mushroom produced by mutation of the white wood ear mushroom (Auricularia polytricha (Mont.) Sacc.) with ultraviolet B rays, and free amino acids that remain stable in the white wood ear mushroom even after irradiation with ultraviolet B rays.

3. A functional material derived from white wood ear mushroom as described in claim 2, characterized in that the free amino acid component species are composed of at least histidine, serine, arginine, glycine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, threonine, alanine, γ-aminobutyric acid, proline, cysteine, lysine, tyrosine, methionine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine and tryptophan.

4. A food or beverage containing the functional material according to claim 1 and / or claim 2 as an active ingredient.

5. An external preparation characterized by containing the functional material according to claim 1 and / or claim 2 as an active ingredient.

6. A functional material, food, beverage or topical preparation derived from white wood ear mushroom according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the part of the functional material derived from white wood ear mushroom that is used is the ferrule.

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