MCT Formulations with Proteins to Extend Ketone Plasma Half-Life
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MCT formulations do not effectively maximize blood exposure to ketones, as the factors influencing ketone plasma half-life from ketone precursors are not well understood, and the impact of the food matrix on ketone production efficiency is unexplored.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) formulated with a food matrix, including proteins and optionally carbohydrates and other lipids, to extend blood exposure to ketones, with a specific ratio of proteins to MCTs and administration in a liquid form that enhances ketone production and plasma half-life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If MCTs are administered as oral bolus, then ketone production efficiency is improved, but plasma half-life of ketones is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by formulating MCTs with food matrix components (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids) before administration. This pre-formulation creates a controlled release system that extends plasma half-life while maintaining ketone production efficiency. The food matrix acts as a carrier that modulates the release rate of MCTs, allowing sustained ketone generation without requiring repeated dosing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining MCTs with food matrix components (proteins at least 0.1 g/1.0 g MCT, carbohydrates at least 0.1 g/1.0 g MCT, and other lipids at least 0.1 g/1.0 g MCT). This composite formulation creates a synergistic system where the food matrix modulates MCT absorption and ketone release, extending plasma half-life while maintaining production efficiency. The specific ratios of components are optimized to balance rapid ketone generation with sustained release.
2Productivity
If MCT formulations are optimized for rapid digestion, then ketone production efficiency is improved, but gastrointestinal tolerability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical and chemical parameters of MCT formulations through food matrix integration. The presence of proteins, carbohydrates, and other lipids changes the digestion rate, viscosity, and emulsion stability parameters, allowing rapid ketone production while reducing gastrointestinal irritation. The specific composition ratios (at least 0.1 g/1.0 g MCT for each component) are optimized to balance digestion speed with tolerability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses food matrix components as intermediaries between MCTs and the gastrointestinal system. These intermediaries (proteins, carbohydrates, other lipids) modulate the interaction between MCTs and the GI tract, reducing direct irritation while facilitating controlled release. The food matrix acts as a buffer and carrier that protects the GI system from harsh MCT effects while maintaining ketone production efficiency.
3Productivity
If emulsion of MCT oil is improved, then ketone production is increased, but formulation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using food matrix components that serve multiple functions simultaneously. Proteins, carbohydrates, and other lipids not only improve emulsion stability and ketone production but also provide nutritional value, enhance palatability, and simplify formulation. The same components that create the emulsion structure also contribute to the overall nutritional profile and stability, reducing the need for additional specialized additives.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges emulsion formulation with food matrix integration, combining multiple functions into a single system. The food matrix components serve both as emulsifiers and as ketone carriers, eliminating the need for separate emulsion-stabilizing agents. This merging simplifies the overall formulation process while maintaining improved ketone production and emulsion stability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composition significantly extends blood exposure to ketones, providing a more sustained plasma level of ketones, which is beneficial for therapeutic applications in conditions such as epilepsy, neurological diseases, and metabolic disorders.
Implementation Method 1
MCTs are rapidly digested, and the resultant free medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are absorbed efficiently by the portal vein to reach the liver where they are extensively metabolized to ketones
Implementation Method 2
BHB and AcA are actively transported to the brain by the monocarboxylic transporter 1 (MCT1)
Data Source
AI summary
A composition effective for treating or preventing a condition for which extended exposure to ketones is beneficial contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) and also contains proteins in a weight ratio of at least 0.1 g protein/1.0 g of the compound. Other aspects are directed to a method of extending blood exposure to ketones derived from oral absorption of a food product by an individual; a method of improving or maintaining at least one of neurologic health, cognitive function, or exercise performance; and a method of making the composition.