Agriculture, Forestry, Fishery and Livestock, Food

# Discovery of Anti-allergic Effect Contained in Unripe Mandarin Oranges

## Life Sciences

Keyword: Unripe Mandarins Contain Anti-allergic Effect, University Venture Company, New Effects of Unripe Citrus

Organizations Involved

○ Hideaki Matsuda, Professor, Medicinal Resource Learning Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kinki University

Tsukasa Ohara, President, A Pharma Kindai Co., Ltd.

【Abstract】 For the past 20 years due to the perceived increase in people affected by allergies, the Medicinal Resource Learning Laboratory at the Faculty of Pharmacy at Kinki University, has been researching possible anti-allergic effect contained in natural foods. The result of which has been the discovery of a strong anti-allergic effect found in unripe mandarin oranges. The product of this research has been a transfer of technology and the creation of a venture company, A Pharma Kindai, by Kinki University, which has produced a functionally nutritious food product and is now available for distribution. As well, apart from unripe mandarin oranges other Citrus have been found by the Medicinal Resource Learning Laboratory in the Faculty of Pharmacy, to have many anti-allergic properties and are currently being readied for future distribution and sale.

## [Summary of the technology transfer]

## Technological Impact

The Medicinal Resource Learning Laboratory at the Faculty of Pharmacy at Kinki University has discovered anti-allergic effect contained in Citrus fruits, especially in unripe ones. Furthermore the laboratory discovered that the unripe fruit is also effective as a skin whitening solution and improves blood circulation.

## ● Social Impact

• According to a study conducted by the Department of Public Health and Labor, 1 out of every 2.8 persons deals with seasonal allergies, eczema, and asthma. These diseases were never a problem until recently when those afflicted by allergies saw a rapid increase in number thus becoming a so-called national disease. Since then we have been able to slightly reduce the number of allergy sufferers, while creating products that will benefit and maintain the health and wellness of not only Japanese people, but people around the world.

• By purchasing unripe mandarin oranges from Arita-county in Wakayama Prefecture, the source of mandarins in the Kansai area, we are contributing to the cultivation of local industry.

## ●Special Features of the Collaboration

•Because A Pharma Kindai is a venture capital company created by Kinki University products created from university research do not go through a maker but can be delivered directly to the consumer. Furthermore consumer feedback also flows directly into university research activities creating great benefits for all involved.

• From the accomplishments of our university-based research which directly influences product development, consumers receive evidence they can trust, and can therefore make their purchases with peace of mind.

Professor Matsuda

## Project Background

In order to apply the intellectual property gained from Kinki University, we have formed A Pharma Kindai, where we strive to produce products that will be of use in our ever changing world.

## Funding History

## 2003

Wakayama Foundation for Promoting Industry

Kinokuni Research and Development Consortium

## I ntellectual property protection

Patented in JAPAN

Whitening Solution or Skin Discoloration

Remedial Medicine (Patent No. 3800611)

Patent pending: JAPAN 8, International 0 Anti-allergy Medicine

(Publication No. 2005-132791)

President Ohara

## The Operation of Anti-allergic effect in Mandarin Oranges and the Change of Seasons

Unripe samples which were gathered in July contain the strongest anti-allergic effect. The larger fruit display greater anti-allergic properties, which as the fruit ripen gradually decrease.

A sample of unripe mandarins collected in July when their anti-allergic properties are strongest.

## Turning point in the Project

OWhile observing the law, we will explore the way in which the effects of unripe Citrus are demonstrated and then familiarize these effects with the general consumer.

OBased on the reliability and safety of university research we can appeal to consumers in a more accurate and precise way.

OFrom the research stage consumer needs are accurately reflected in product development.