Merck today announced the signing of an agreement with Greenpharma, a contract research organization (CRO) headquartered in Orléans, France, for its cosmetic active ingredient poppy seed extract, a skin-firming substance. According to the agreement, Merck will market the active ingredient globally under its umbrella brand RonaCare as of September 2013. In addition, Merck is responsible for sales, logistics and application technology customer support.
“Greenpharma distinguishes itself by high quality standards, intensive research work and environmentally sound product manufacturing. That makes it a perfect partner for Merck,” explains Michael Weiden, Head of Functional Materials within Merck’s Pigments & Cosmetics business unit.
Natural poppy seed extract displays lipolytic activity via a dual mechanism: both by inhibiting lipogenesis and by activating lipolysis. The researchers at Greenpharma proved that the active ingredient inhibits the build-up of fat by reducing G3PDH activity (glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase) in the fat cells. At the same time, it activates lipolysis by enhancing the release of free fatty acids.
Poppy seed extract is therefore particularly suited for use in anti-cellulite body care products. According to Merck, the skin-firming effect of the substance can also be put to use in other applications, for instance to give facial skin a smoother and more even appearance.
“This agreement does illustrate Greenpharma’s capability to conduct R&D projects from a robust scientific basis to an active ingredient ready for the market,” concludes Philippe Bernard, Chief Executive Officer of Greenpharma.
