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CHASE Clinical Trial

Cardiovascular Health Astaxanthin Supplement Evaluation

In September 2018, we initiated a human clinical trial entitled,Cardiovascular Health Astaxanthin Supplement Evaluation (“CHASE”), targeting cardiovascular inflammatory health. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial is evaluating the effect of low-dose and high-dose ZanthoSyn® on cardiovascular health as measured by CRP levels over 12 weeks in up to 120 subjects with documented cardiovascular risk factors. The study also included an optional open label extension through 48 weeks.

Interim results from an initial cohort of subjects were announced on September 23, 2019. The interim results were based on data from 40 subjects administered highdose ZanthoSyn® (96 mg/day astaxanthin – 48 mg twice a day), low-dose ZanthoSyn® (24 mg/day astaxanthin – 12 mg twice a day), or placebo.

Highlights from the interim review shown below are median percentage changes from baseline to week 12 unless otherwise stated. While the interim review was not powered for statistical significance, p-values less than 0.05 compared to placebo are provided. The p-values reported below (*p<0.05, **p<0.01) are nominal p-values from non-parametric comparisons of the median between each group and placebo and no adjustments for multiple comparisons were made.

Interim Results
High Dose
Low Dose
Placebo
CRP
-28%
-32%
-5%
LDL-C
-12%**
-7%
+5%
Total Cholesterol
-8% *
-5%
+4%
Triglycerides
-16%
-13%
+6%
Oxidized LDL
-10% *
+3%
+4%
Blood Pressure
-5% *
-4% *
+6%

We believe these findings provide:

  • Further mechanistic support for our astaxanthin pharmaceutical development program
  • Basis for additional patent filings
  • Support for the cardiovascular health benefits of ZanthoSyn®

The interim results also underscore astaxanthin’s safety profile with no adverse safety signals observed. The CHASE Data Safety Review Board, which is comprised of a majority of independent clinical trial professionals, recommended that the clinical trial continue enrollment.

The FDA does not require human clinical trials for dietary supplements, but we believe that positive results from the CHASE trial may help promote scientific and consumer awareness of astaxanthin’s health and longevity applications and serve as further mechanistic support for our pharmaceutical development program.

In March 2020, recruitment and study visits were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the related governmental “stay-at-home” orders. Recruitment and study visits remained suspended thereafter until the study was terminated in 2021.