Josef Ressel Centre for phytogenic drug researchGoal: Increased use of phytogenic active ingredients and substances to prevent diseases in humans and to improve the health of animals.

In cooperation with the Vienna University of Technology and three renowned industry partners (Delacon GmbH, agromed Austria GmbH, PM International AG), researchers from the Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences are working on the incorporation of phytogenic active ingredients into food (supplements).

For this purpose, biological test systems are being developed, implemented and used, which allow possible to characterize phytogenic active ingredients in detail at the cellular level with regard to their modes of action. Different in-vitro, in-vivo, in-ovo and in-silico test systems are applied. However, the planned research activities also include the chemical-analytical characterization of raw materials, extracts and functional products. The aim is to identify and quantify bioactive ingredients and potential "lead substances".

Phytogens are plant-derived chemical compounds that can have a beneficial effect on human and animal health. Current estimates suggest that more than 28,000 different plant species have corresponding medicinal effects, with only a fraction known to be used in current medicine or nutrition. Moreover, detailed information on the potential molecular modes of action is usually lacking. Nevertheless, naturally chemical compounds have long been an important source of new medicines and offer unique structural diversity.

There is increasing scientific evidence that phytogenic food constituents or isolated phytogenic substances have a positive impact on human health when consumed as part of the daily diet. A large number of studies have shown that a diet rich in polyphenols can prevent cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, cancer-inhibiting activities as well as multiple modes of action against diseases such as Alzheimer's, obesity and diabetes have been identified. Nevertheless, the actual effects of phytamines at the molecular and cellular level often remain unclear. Further studies to clarify possible functional modes of action and to identify potential bioactive constituents or to assess toxic potential are therefore essential.

Phytogenic substances have also gained enormous importance as bioactive feed additives in animal breeding and fattening in recent years due to the ban on antibiotics as growth-promoting feed additives. In this context, phytogenic substances are discussed as a possible natural substitute. However, their modes of action and possible areas of application are far from being fully explored.

Opening Ceremony of the JRC for Phytogenic Drug Research

Photo credits: B. Plank @ imBILDE.at


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