Unlocking the power of Bioenergy Ribose and RiaGev-WS: New insights from BLS

Bioenergy Life Science (BLS) has recently released new research underscoring the efficacy of their bioactive ingredients, Bioenergy Ribose and RiaGev-WS, in skin care applications. These ingredients have demonstrated significant potential in improving skin firmness, elasticity, and overall appearance by supporting the skin's natural rejuvenation processes at the cellular level.

In this Q&A, Michael Crabtree, N.D., Director of Scientific Affairs at BLS, provides insights into the data and science behind these ingredients, their applications, and the ongoing innovations at BLS aimed at advancing skin care formulations.

CDU: Can you explain the science behind Bioenergy Ribose and RiaGev-WS and how they work synergistically within the skin’s cells to support natural rejuvenation processes?​

Michael Crabtree (MC)​: As we age, our skin loses its firmness. Wrinkles appear due to a decline in collagen, elasticity, and vital skin cells, alongside increased damage from free radicals.

Fibroblasts, crucial for maintaining skin's strength and structure, become less effective, leading to a loss of skin tone, thinning and more wrinkles. Additionally, the amount of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), essential for healthy skin function, decreases with age.

Fewer lines and increased radiance start within the skin’s cells and matrix. The best bioactives support the power of the skin’s healthy aging molecules.

D-ribose (Bioenergy Ribose), a naturally occurring unique, five carbon sugar, has been clinically shown to boost ATP production. Studies involving Bioenergy Ribose have indicated improvements in fibroblast activity, and enhanced skin tone and reduced wrinkles in several clinical trials on women.

These benefits were demonstrated most recently in a clinical study performed with five different women in three separate groups. Group 1 received 0.1 ml of a solution of Bioenergy Ribose 0.5% and distilled water; Group 2 received 01. ml of a solution of RiaGev-WS 1% and distilled water; Group 3 received 0.1 ml of a solution of MannoCare 2% and distilled water.

All solutions were applied topically. Results were recorded for each subject in each group at baseline and after 45 minutes. At the study’s 45-minute mark, single topical applications of Bioenergy Ribose or RiaGev-WS produced noticeable results including: improved skin firmness/wrinkle reduction, enhanced skin elasticity, enhanced vasodilation and skin brightening, and increased skin hydration/moisture, which may indicate the ingredients’ ability to improve the absorption of other water-soluble ingredients such as vitamins. 

A single topical application of MannoCare (D-Mannose) was shown to noticeably help skin retain and attract moisture, and support a plump, dewy appearance. 

CDU: A 2009 study​ published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology showed significant reduction in wrinkle surface and length after topical application of Bioenergy Ribose. Can you elaborate on the long-term benefits observed in this study and subsequent research?​

MC​: Bioenergy Ribose (D-Ribose), a key ingredient in our innovative skin care applications, has been clinically proven to enhance skin appearance. In a study with adult women facing dull skin and visible wrinkles, consistent application of our 0.5% D-ribose formula delivered noticeable results.

Within 14 days, participants experienced a significant 12.2% decrease in wrinkle surface area and a 9.1% shortening in wrinkle length. By the 28th day, wrinkle length reduction increased to 17.6%, while the improvement in wrinkle surface remained consistent.

The product's efficacy was not just measurable in numbers; 67% of users reported a more radiant and luminous complexion, and 71% observed a marked reduction in skin dullness. Additionally, the formula may enhance natural tanning due to the Maillard browning reaction, a unique feature that could appeal to a broad consumer base seeking a sun-kissed glow.

These promising results underscore this unique ingredient’s potential in revitalizing skin, offering users a more youthful and vibrant appearance. Our studies position Bioenergy Ribose (D-ribose) as a valuable addition to the next generation of cosmetic products.

CDU: How does Bioenergy Ribose enhance skin metabolism and improve oxygen uptake by skin cells? What impact does this have on the overall appearance and health of the skin?​

MC​: Aging skin experiences a decline in vital components such as collagen, elastic fibers, and important cells, leading to reduced elasticity and wrinkle formation. This is influenced by ongoing battles with damaging reactive oxygen species.

Bioenergy Ribose​ (D-ribose), a unique 5 carbon sugar found in nature, plays a significant role in energy supplementation. It helps regenerate ATP, which is crucial for maintaining cell function after stress, including in blood cell preservation and response to oxidative stress.

Recent research, especially in skin cells called fibroblasts, has highlighted Bioenergy Ribose (D-ribose's) efficacy in topical applications.

Borel and colleagues found that Bioenergy Ribose (D-ribose) boosts the activity of fibroblasts by increasing the respiratory rates of both mitochondria and cytoplasm — essential indicators of healthy skin cell function. A 0.05% concentration of D-ribose elevates mitochondrial and cytosolic oxygen consumption by 37% and 31%, respectively, and raises ATP levels by 19% during low oxygen conditions.

These enhancements are particularly relevant to developers focusing on anti-aging and skin health, as they do not occur under normal oxygen levels.

CDU: RiaGev-WS combines Bioenergy Ribose and Niacinamide. What are the benefits of this optimized ratio for skin health and appearance?​

MC​: Ongoing research suggests that Bioenergy Ribose may enhance the bioavailability of niacinamide by synergistically interacting with the NAD+ metabolome. This effect appears to be amplified when the compounds are proportionally optimized and topically applied to the skin, potentially improving oxidative processes, and strengthening the dermal barrier.

Given the established moisturizing properties of Bioenergy Ribose and RiaGev-WS, it is plausible to assume they could also augment the efficacy of other water-soluble actives in skin care formulations.

CDU: How do Bioenergy Ribose and RiaGev-WS protect the skin against oxidative damage and help repair and rejuvenate the skin?​

MC​: Bioenergy Ribose and RiaGev-WS are notable for their distinctive properties that support and amplify the body's antioxidant defenses. By boosting ATP and NAD+, along with their metabolic by-products, these compounds indirectly strengthen vital antioxidants such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase.

This enhancement helps mitigate the damaging effects of oxidative stress from free radicals on skin’s structure and appearance.

CDU: Are there any other innovative skin care ingredients or products in development at Bioenergy Life Science that you can share with us?​

MC​: Certainly.  Our research is building on recent discoveries related to the traditional role of Bioenergy Ribose (D-ribose) in cosmetics and personal care products, aiming to both replicate and extend these findings.  We are further developing innovative technologies through our revolutionary co-crystallization process that aim to improve the solubility and bioavailability of widely used cosmetic ingredients, expanding on their synergistic effects when paired with Bioenergy Ribose (D-ribose).