Equateq uses “wizardry” to synthesise DGLA

28-Jan-2009 - Last updated on 28-Jan-2009 at 12:09 GMT

Equateq is at Informex 2009 showcasing its synthesised 98 per cent pure omega-6 DGLA, use of which has previously been restricted owing to difficulties obtaining it from natural sources.

Researchers believe that DGLA (Dihomma-Gamma-Linolenic Acid) has the potential to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, asthma and arthritis but studies have been hindered by the lack of a viable source.

Prior to Equateq synthesising DGLA researchers had to administer GLA, extracted from evening primrose or borage oils, and rely on the human body to convert it to DGLA.

Equateq’s synthesis of the compound should resolve this shortcoming and allow researchers to experiment with direct inputs of DGLA.

Adam Kelliher, CEO at Equateq, said: “There is a lot of wizardry involved in this, as my team has essentially mimicked processes from within the human body in order to deliver DGLA in a super-pure form. It is a magnificent first result, and we expect to be announcing characterization of several other lipid active pharmaceutical ingredients in the months and years to come.”

Equateq believes that DGLA has applications in topical formulations for treating hyper-proliferative skin disorders.

The compound is believed to be a raw material in the body’s synthesis of potent anti-inflammatory compounds called prostaglandin E1 and 15-HETrE, which are capable of fighting skin disorders.

DGLA, which is being marketed as EQT-101, is available in batches ranging from grams to kilograms. The compound is manufactured at Equateq’s facility that is compliant with current good manufacturing practices (cGMP).