Berkeley launches ActivaMune immune support formula

BERKELEY, Calif. Berkeley BioSciences on Monday launched ActivaMune—an advanced immune support formula exclusively licensed from UC Berkeley.

ActivaMune is based on a discovery regarding the immune activating properties of Diindolylmethane, a naturally occurring compound found in Brassica vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts). This compound has been shown to modulate key immune enhancing cytokines, which are groups of proteins and peptides that are used in organisms as signaling compounds. These chemical signals are similar to hormones and neurotransmitters and are used to allow one cell to communicate with another. 

DIM, at dietary supplemental dosages, is currently used as a treatment for recurring respiratory papillomatosis tumors (caused by the human papillomavirus), the company reported, and is in Phase III clinical trials for cervical dysplasia, which is also caused by HPV. Diindolylmethane is currently under investigation as a natural therapeutic for most viral infections, including HPV, influenza, hepatitis and HIV as well as antibiotic resistant bacteria.

As DIM has both immune modulating properties that fight cancer, as well as direct anti-cancer properties, it is also currently in clinical trials sponsored by the National Cancer Institute as a natural therapeutic for various forms of cancer.

Epidemiological studies have indicated that people who regularly consume Brassica vegetables have a significantly lower risk of cancer. Scientists believe that the three principal nutrients in Brassica vegetables responsible for these protective properties are: Diindolylmethane, sulforaphane and selenium. ActivaMune is the first dietary supplement in the market to deliver all three of these nutrients from Brassica vegetables in one capsule.

Proceeds from ActivaMune sales support research and development of nature-based therapeutics for cancer, AIDS and other diseases.