Kirin's immunological research, toward the goal of realizing life with Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma close at hand
Kirin began its research on immunology in the 1980s. We have long been engaged in research on lactic acid bacteria, with the desire to "believe in the power of people's innate 'immunity' and to protect the healthy lives of our customers through food and beverages."
As a result of this research, Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma was discovered. Development was promoted so that many people could easily take in this lactic acid bacteria, and the iMUSE brand was born in 2017.
Kirin has received high acclaim for its more than 35 years of immunological research and the discovery and commercialization of Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma, including the acceptance of a registration as foods with function claims related to the immune system in Japan in 2020 and the first-ever Imperial Invention Award for health food ingredients in 2023.
Immunity is a defense system that protects the body from external enemies. It is the foundation of health and is very important for human beings regardless of race or age. We will continue to contribute to solving social issues around the world, aiming to realize a joyful and enriched life in the age of 100-year life.
What is Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma that supports the maintenance of immune function in healthy people?
Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma is the world's first lactic acid bacteria* that can act directly on plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC), which are immune cells, and supports the maintenance of immune function in healthy people. In this process, Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma works on pDCs, which are the leaders of the immune system, and activates immune cells as a whole. As a result, the body's defense system functions.
In addition, there is scientific evidence that Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma maintains more immunity when taken for more than two weeks, compared to those who do not take it.
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*Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma was the first lactic acid bacteria in the world to be reported to act on pDC in humans (based on information published in PubMed and the Ichushi-Web).
The major difference between Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma and other lactic acid bacteria is that the reason "why it works" is well understood. Since lactic acid bacteria themselves are composed of various substances such as DNA and proteins, concerning many of them, we do not know which substances act on immune cells and how, but as for Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma, we clearly understand that DNA is important.
In addition, since Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma does not need to be live lactic acid bacteria as long as their DNA remains intact, they do not need to be refrigerated and can be applied to products in various forms, such as tablets and gummies.
Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma series delivers daily immune care to many people
We have a broad lineup of products that provide such Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma under a wide range of brands across the Kirin Group. We are working on product development to support the daily mental and physical health of our customers by providing them with products that match their preferences and lifestyles, making it easy for them to take care of their immune systems.
The past and future of Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma products
We want to support healthy lifestyles by making it a habit to easily take in "immune care." With this in mind, Kirin has been engaged in immunological research and the development of Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma products for many years. This has never changed and will never change.
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*The article shows product packages as they were at the time of the interview.
