Opitac, an L-glutathione reduced ingredient developed by Mitsubishi Corporation Life Sciences, was awarded a U.S. patent for its evidenced role in improving outcomes in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in need of treatment. The patent claims that the glutathione ingredient can ameliorate fat deposits in the human liver among patients with the condition.
 
The composition, a tripeptide that exists in every cell of the human body, contains glutathione as its main ingredient. According to Mitsubishi, its function is complex and remains the subject of ongoing research, but, in sum, it is known that it scavenges free radicals in a way generally seen as countering cell oxidation. It also activates liver function, and has been evidenced to confer other benefits in areas such as skin health and muscle fatigue.
 
Kohjin Life Sciences Co. Ltd., an affiliate of Mitsubishi Corporation Life Sciences and manufacturer of L-Glutathione Reduced, launched their research on glutathione nearly 50 years ago, and first established its recognition in Japan as a pharmaceutical ingredient.
 
The patent claim describes the ingredient as “a method of improving non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in patients in need of treatment, comprising the administration of a composition containing glutathione as its active ingredient, wherein the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is indicated by low liver stiffness.”