PhytoGaia and Monash University Collaborate on Groundbreaking Human Clinical Trial – STGaiaᵀᴹ – Nature’s Answer for Skin Beauty & Anti-Aging
May 28th, 2024 – New York, USA. PhytoGaia Sdn Bhd and Monash University are excited to announce the official signing of a groundbreaking Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), marking the initiation of a visionary clinical trial in Malaysia. This partnership represents a pioneering effort to study the effectiveness of STGaia™, a novel and innovative palm-based phytonutrient for skin beauty and anti-aging. STGaia™ was specifically developed by PhytoGaia Sdn Bhd to address the prevalent dry and aging skin conditions. It is the first of its kind in the market that has two synergistic active compounds: natural squalene + tocotrienols, in a complex.
Entitled “Alterations in Skin Hydration, Moisture, and Genomic in Subjects with Dry Skin Conditions following Daily Oral Palm Tocotrienol and Squalene (STGaia™) Supplementation,” this human clinical endeavor aims to uncover the unique potential benefits of STGaia™ for individuals struggling with dry and aging skin concerns. The primary objective of this randomized placebo-controlled trial (RCT) is to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with STGaiaTM, an exclusive product from PhytoGaia on human subjects with dry, scaly and itchy skin.
The signing ceremony, on 23rd May 2024, formalize the strategic partnership between PhytoGaia Sdn Bhd, a global leader in the supply of palm phytonutrients, and Monash University, renowned for its expertise in clinical and scientific research as well as its highly regarded faculty members.
The clinical trial will evaluate the impact of STGaia™ supplementation on skin hydration, moisture levels, and genomic alterations among participants with dry and aging skin. With meticulous evaluation, data collection and analyses, this research provide evidence-based insights into the efficacy of STGaia™ in addressing this prevalent skin concern, and at the same time, shedding light on its potential effects on gene expression and skin health at the molecular level.
“We are thrilled to embark on this research partnership with Monash University,” remarked Mr Bryan See, Vice President at PhytoGaia. “This study represents a significant stride in our commitment to advancing the field of palm phytonutrients and skin care, particularly in addressing the effects of dry and aging skin. By leveraging on the expertise of Monash University’s esteemed researchers, we aim to uncover valuable insights into the efficacy of STGaia™ and its potential to enhance the lives of individuals dealing with dry skin conditions and age-related concerns. Another important aspect of this study is the nutrigenomic analyses that will provide a comprehensive understanding of how STGaiaTM supplementation influences gene experession and skin at the molecular level, which has not been done before”.
In addition to advancing scientific knowledge, this collaborative study holds the potential to foster academic partnership, research excellence and commercial opportunities for both parties. This human clinical trial is also anticipated to further stimulate the interest and investment in clinical research within Malaysia especially for palm-based phytonutrients, an important downstream commercial activity for Malaysia’s palm oil industry. The palm oil was valued at around RM 137 billion in 2023 and contributed approximately RM 35 billion to the nation’s total GDP.
“We see great market potential in this research partnership, particularly with the aging demographic and the rising interest in natural beauty solutions in Malaysia and the world. Teaming up with Monash University underscores our commitment, not only to furthering the science of palm pohytionutrients but at the same time, adapting to consumer demands and driving forward-thinking approaches in skin care and anti-aging,” added Mr See.
“We are excited to collaborate with science-based companies such as PhytoGaia on this groundbreaking clinical trial,” said Prof. Dr. Shajahan Yasin, Dean of Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia. “Our institution is committed to conducting rigorous research that contributes to the advancements of our local resources and in healthcare to improve the well-being of individuals not only in Malaysia but worldwide. By joining forces with PhytoGaia, we have the opportunity to explore innovative solutions for addressing dry skin conditions and enhancing overall skin health“, added Dr Kasthuri Bai Magalingam, the principal investigator at Monash University.
The signing ceremony will mark the official commencement of the collaborative research initiative, setting the stage for a transformative exploration into the potential unique benefits of STGaia™ supplementation for individuals with dry skin.
For further information about the clinical trial or inquiries regarding PhytoGaia and Monash University’s partnership, please reach out to [email protected].