ChromaDex Corporation, Irvine, CA, has initiated a clinical study at the University of Mississippi for pTeroPure pterostilbene, which is chemically related to resveratrol.

The novel ingredient is based on the grant of an exclusive worldwide license to all patent rights of pterostilbene from the University of Mississippi. In laboratory tests, pterostilbene has shown promise for improving cardiovascular health, glucose levels, anti-aging and cognitive function—and for possessing cancer-fighting properties. Various scientific publications have shown that pterostilbene has significantly higher activity than resveratrol.

The clinical trial is being conducted at the UM Medical Center in Jackson, where investigators hope to evaluate the compound in patients with lipid (cholesterol) disorders. Patients enrolled in the study will receive high and low doses of pterostilbene with and without grape extract, or a placebo, said Daniel Riche, assistant professor of pharmacy practice and medicine, and the study’s principal investigator.

“We are excited to be collaborating with ChromaDex on the first clinical investigation for pterostilbene,” Dr. Riche said. “Pterostilbene has significant promise, and we hope it will offer a useful non-prescription option for metabolic disorders. In addition to cholesterol and blood pressure, we will be evaluating urine tests and monitoring for inflammatory markers. Reductions in these markers may correlate with improvements in oxidative stress.”

Assisting Dr. Riche with the study are Justin Sherman, associate professor of pharmacy practice, and Dr. C. Andrew Brown, professor of medicine at the UM Medical Center in Jackson.

“The commencement of our pTeroPure pterostilbene clinical study with the University of Mississippi marks another significant milestone for ChromaDex,” said Frank Jaksch, CEO and co-founder of ChromaDex. “Most people may not yet know of pterostilbene, but we believe this naturally occurring compound’s improved activity and potency may soon make it as well known as its highly-successful, well known relative, resveratrol.”