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RiboDIET®: boosting immunity with nucleotides

RiboDIET® is Prosol's new natural product, extracted from yeast cells using a standardised, highly controlled, and gentle process that is organic solvent-free.

Nucleotides have been commercially used in human infant formulas for many years to improve gastric development and early immune function (Helembai et al., 2006; Ruihua et al., 2006). RiboDIET® is a source of nucleotides, nucleosides, oligonucleotides, ribonucleic acid fragments, amino acids, and vitamin B complex.

Nucleotides and their role in cellular function

Nucleotides are low-molecular-weight intracellular compounds that play a central role in a wide range of biochemical processes essential for life. Structurally, they are composed of a nitrogenous base (purine or pyrimidine) linked to a pentose sugar (ribose or deoxyribose), to which one or more phosphate groups are attached.

Within the cell, nucleotides perform multiple key functions. They are the structural building blocks of nucleic acids, forming DNA and RNA, and they act as energy carriers through molecules such as ATP, ADP and AMP. In addition, nucleotides serve as components of co-enzymes involved in protein synthesis and in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, and they function as intracellular messengers in signal transduction pathways.

The biological importance of nucleotides is highlighted by studies showing that nucleotide-free diets can negatively affect both cell-mediated and humoral immune responses. Reduced macrophage and natural killer (NK) cell activity, impaired cytokine production, delayed hypersensitivity responses and lower antibody levels have all been reported, potentially increasing susceptibility to infections. Importantly, these effects have been shown to be reversible through dietary nucleotide supplementation.

Why dietary nucleotides matter

Although the body is able to synthesise nucleotides endogenously via de novo pathways, this synthesis is not always sufficient to meet physiological demands. This is particularly true during specific life stages or conditions characterised by increased metabolic stress, growth or regeneration.

Cells with a high turnover rate—such as those of the gastrointestinal tract, the immune system and the central nervous system—have especially high nucleotide requirements. Lymphocytes, erythrocytes, bone marrow cells and glial cells often rely on an external supply of nucleotides to fully support their metabolic and functional needs.

Scientific evidence supporting nucleotide supplementation

An increasing body of scientific evidence indicates that dietary nucleotides can positively influence several aspects of health and physiological function, particularly in single-stomached animals. Reported benefits include improvements in intestinal morphology and function, modulation of immune responses, beneficial effects on the composition of the intestinal microbiota, and support of liver function and morphology.

Together, these findings support the concept that dietary nucleotides represent a valuable nutritional component, especially in situations where endogenous synthesis may be insufficient to sustain optimal cellular function.

RiboDIET® – in vitro evidence and potential applications

RiboDIET® has been evaluated in in vitro trials designed to investigate its biological activity under inflammatory conditions. Following treatment with RiboDIET® and stimulation with lipopolysaccharides (LPS), the results showed statistically significant effects, highlighting the ingredient's ability to modulate cellular responses in an inflammatory context.

Specifically, RiboDIET® demonstrated:

• Anti-inflammatory activity, with a reduction of inflammation-related markers
• Immunomodulatory effects, supporting a balanced immune response

These findings suggest that RiboDIET® may play a role in supporting physiological mechanisms involved in immune regulation and inflammatory control. As with all in vitro data, these results provide a mechanistic rationale that supports further investigation and application, without implying direct clinical outcomes.

Overview of suggested applications for RiboDIET®

Based on its biological profile and supporting scientific rationale, RiboDIET® may be considered for use in formulations targeting:

• Immune system support, through modulation of immune responses
• Gut barrier health, in line with the high nucleotide demand of intestinal cells
• Sports nutrition, to support recovery and high-turnover tissues
• Cognition and concentration, given the metabolic requirements of brain cells
• Iron absorption, as part of broader nutritional strategies supporting micronutrient uptake

Together, these data position RiboDIET® as a versatile, science-driven ingredient suitable for a wide range of nutritional applications where cellular metabolism and immune balance are key.

References

Helembai, K. et al. (2006). [Full citation needed]
Ruihua, L. et al. (2006). [Full citation needed]

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