Agricultural processing giant Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) has been awarded three US patents for the use of concentrated isoflavones combined with other plant-derived phytochemicals to treat blood-related diseases, cancer and menopausal symptoms.
The patents cover plant-derived compositions enriched with at least two phytochemicals from a group of isoflavones, lignans, saponins, catechins and phenolic acids.
"The unique combination of isoflavones with other natural-source compounds has potential to provide greater benefit than can be achieved from single uncombined compounds and may prove useful in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, reduction in hot flashes, and treatment of cancer," said Tony DeLio, corporate vice president of marketing and external affairs. "They can be used in dietary supplements or added to foods to provide functional benefits."
US patent No. 6,391,308 concerns a "Method of Preparing and Using Isoflavones for the Treatment of Blood-Related Illnesses." The patent covers a compound administered for cardiovascular conditions such as excessive bloodstream cholesterol, the risk of heart disease, abnormal blood lipid profiles, and abnormal vascular effects. The patent also claims a method of treating humans for a cardiovascular condition.
The second patent, No. 6,395,279, covers a composition used to treat cancer, particularly breast, prostate, skin, colon, urinary, and bladder cancer, while the third, No. 6,391,309, concerns the treatment of female symptoms, such as common menopausal symptoms and premenstrual syndrome.
ADM markets isoflavones under its Novasoy brand. The products are made from soy-derived isoflavones combined with saponins and other concentrated phytochemicals.
"These latest patents are part of a series which demonstrates our commitment to the discovery and development of plant-derived ingredients that promote health and well being," added DeLio.
Last year ADM posted net sales of $23.5 billion for the fiscal year ended 30 June 2002.