Valent BioSciences Corporation announced today it has filed worldwide patent applications claiming beneficial health effects of abscisic acid (S-ABA) in humans and animals. S-ABA is a naturally occurring substance found in all plants, including fruits and vegetables.
The patent applications disclose data that could support further research for S-ABA as a therapeutic treatment or dietary supplement.
"VBC is the only global manufacturer and marketer of S-ABA and we're excited to be actively exploring potential commercial opportunities for the molecule in a variety of markets," said Dr. Warren E. Shafer, Valent BioSciences' Vice President of Global Research & Development and Regulatory Affairs.
The filings are part of a series of global patents and patent applications related to S-ABA sought by the Illinois-based biotechnology company, which has commercialized two S-ABA products for crop use in the last three years. ProTone® Plant Growth Regulator was launched in 2009 to enhance color in table grapes, while BioNikTM Plant Growth Regulator is being launched in 2012 as a seed treatment to extend the window of pollen shed in hybrid corn seed production.
Can soda taxes fight obesity? New research adds to the debate