薬理と治療

Abstract

Objective　This study focused on whether Coccomyxa sp. KJ changes physical and mental conditions and functional markers of the immune system in healthy Japanese adults. Methods　We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. After the screening stage, we randomly assigned individuals to the placebo group（n＝40）or Coccomyxa sp. KJ group（n＝40）. The participants received the placebo or Coccomyxa sp. KJ tablets for 8 weeks. To clarify the effect of Coccomyxa sp. KJ, we measured health-related quality of life by using a subjective questionnaire（upper respiratory tract, gastrointestinal, and systemic symptoms） for the primary endpoint, and natural killer cell cytotoxicity（NK activity）and cytokine levels in peripheral blood. Results　The Coccomyxa sp. KJ suppressed worsening physical and mental conditions such as nasal symptoms, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, and anxiety. NK activity and TNF-alpha levels were maintained in the Coccomyxa sp. KJ group, however, decreased in the placebo group. In contrast, the Coccomyxa sp. KJ did not affect the IFN-gamma, IL-6, IL-4, and IL-1beta levels. Conclusions　Coccomyxa sp. KJ maintains physical and mental conditions and modulates immune functions in healthy adults. （UMIN-CTR ID: UMIN000044768）（Jpn Pharmacol Ther 2022；50：1645‒55）