Specifically targeting the mitochondria, with respect to their essential roles in health and disease, mitochondria-targeted nutraceuticals are emerging as anti-ageing supplements toward sustaining cellular energy production, mitochondrial quality control, and redox balance. Protheragen offers comprehensive custom mitochondria-relevant nutraceutical development services, assisting clients from mechanistic research and ingredient selection to robust preclinical validation, along with formulation design as well as comprehensive analytical testing for support of mitochondrial health solutions.
Nutraceuticals are bioactive compounds including or consisting of certain phytochemicals or functional foods that might exert benefits for health apart from their general nutrient content; thereby, they could be used for the prevention and/or therapy of disease. Considering their health benefits, therapeutic potential, and safety profile, the demand for mitochondria-targeting nutraceuticals is increasing. Mitochondria-relevant nutraceuticals are bioactive compounds specifically selected on the basis of their bioactivity in modulating mitochondrial pathways. Their mode of action is usually via stimulation of mitochondrial biogenesis, reduction in oxidative stress through increases in endogenous antioxidant defenses, increasing membrane integrity, or acting as direct metabolic bypass agents to optimize substrate utilization. These individualized nutritional interventions are evolving as an essential adjunct supportive strategy to existing therapy approaches.
Fig.1 Certain nutraceuticals improve mitochondrial biogenesis by targeting its regulatory cascade. (Davì, F., et al., 2025)
Metabolic Modulators and Cofactors
The substances necessary for the proper functioning of the electron transportation chain and the Krebs cycle. Examples are L-carnitine (which helps fatty acids get transported into mitochondria) and B vitamins such as Riboflavin.
Antioxidants and ROS Scavengers
Compounds that protect mitochondrial constituents (e.g., DNA and lipids) from oxidative insult. Some key examples include Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an essential component of the ETC and potent lipid-soluble antioxidant, and Vitamin E.
Mitochondrial Biogenesis Inducers
Compounds that promote the formation of new mitochondria which can increase cellular energy capacity. This may often be mediated by the activation of some signaling pathways, such as SIRT1, with examples including Resveratrol and Pterostilbene.
Mitochondrial Membrane Stabilizers
Substances (e.g., certain phospholipids or fatty acids) that stabilize the inner mitochondrial membrane, thereby preserving structural integrity and electrochemical potential gradient, are necessary for ETC function and maintenance of a proton gradient.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) | Transfers electrons from complex I and II to complex III in the ETC, and it also acts as an antioxidant. |
| L-Carnitine | Takes part in the transfer of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria to undergo β-oxidation and in the removal of metabolites of acetyl coenzyme A. |
| Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) | A cofactor for the alpha-keto acid dehydrogenases in the mitochondria, and acts as an antioxidant. |
| Arginine | A precursor of nitric oxide, which acts to vasodilate and is thought to lessen the severity and frequency of stroke-like episodes in MELAS individuals. |
| Creatine Monohydrate | Regeneration of ATP via the decomposition of phosphocreatine. |
| Resveratrol | Mitochondrial functions are improved by SIRT1 activation and enhancement of oxidative phosphorylation. |
| Riboflavin | A main component of the flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavin mononucleotide (FMN), which are electron carriers and cofactors in complexes I and II of the ETC. |
| Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) | Mitochondrial biogenesis is significantly stimulated by PQQ supplementation through activation of PGC-1α signaling pathways. |
| … | … |
Drawing on a wealth of knowledge in mitochondrial biology, state-of-the-art analytical platforms, and proprietary disease models, our service is designed to meet the specific needs of nutraceutical development when targeting complex mitochondrial damage. We are able to go beyond simple formulation, concentrating on mechanism-of-action validation and all-encompassing efficacy testing in physiologically valid systems. Our comprehensive approach guarantees that formulation is backed by strong scientific research and specifically developed with precision for targeted mitochondrial support.
Protheragen offers full-service custom development for the entire spectrum of mitochondria-related nutraceuticals, from specific mechanistic and targeted formulas. Our expertise extends across multiple final product forms such as powder, capsules, tablets and liquid delivery systems in order to insure the best stability, bioavailability and compliance for all developed products.
Navigating the path from raw compound to a marketable nutraceutical requires specialized infrastructure and expertise. An end-to-end service suite is offered, including all of the key stages of a product development pipeline, to maintain scientific rigor and compliance.
Mitochondrial Biology Expertise
Expert team with direct experience in mitochondrial genetics, bioenergetics, and disease pathophysiology, enabling mechanism-driven development.
Fully Customized Solution
Recognizing the unique nature of each project, we offer personalized solutions with adaptable workflows and deliverables adjusted to meet your scientific needs.
Integrated Workflow
From target identification and in vitro screening to preclinical proof of concept, we provide services every step of the way to ensure scientific integrity and efficiency.
Advanced Technology
Leveraging validated disease models, high-resolution respirometry, and advanced mitochondrial analytics to generate precise data that supports development decisions.
By partnering with Protheragen, you gain access to the specialized tools and expertise necessary to validate and accelerate your nutraceuticals development lifecycle. Contact our team to discuss how our nutraceutical development services can drive your mitochondrial health product from idea to scientifically backed formulation. Let's collaborate to develop the next generation of mitochondrial support solutions.
Reference
For research use only, not for clinical use.
