Q-actin Research Earns Recognition from Prestigious Prix Galien UK Awards Program

Nomination highlights the scientific innovation behind the first commercially validated iminosugar ingredient for human nutrition

CARSON CITY, NEVADA  – June 24, 2026 – Q-actin®, a patented cucumber extract clinically validated for joint health and sleep support, was recognized by the 2026 Prix Galien UK Awards program through its nomination for one of the organization's scientific innovation awards.

Established in 1970, the Prix Galien Awards are widely regarded as among the highest honors recognizing scientific innovation that improves human health. The awards recognize outstanding achievements across pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical technology and public-sector health categories.

Q-actin is a patented cucumber extract standardized to greater than 1% ido-BR1, a naturally occurring iminosugar found in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Q-actin was nominated by PhytoQuest Limited, the UK company that discovered and developed ido-BR1. Q-actin is manufactured by IminoTech, Inc. and marketed globally as a dietary supplement ingredient for healthy joint function and active aging.

"Being recognized by the Prix Galien program is a meaningful validation of the science behind Q-actin and the pioneering work that led to the discovery of ido-BR1," said Robert Nash, Ph.D., founder of PhytoQuest Limited and a leading researcher in iminosugar biology. "While iminosugars have long attracted scientific interest, Q-actin represents the first commercially validated iminosugar ingredient developed for human nutrition."

The nomination highlights more than two decades of research into iminosugars, a class of naturally occurring compounds that influence cellular glycobiology. The active compound in Q-actin, ido-BR1, is structurally related to L-iduronic acid, a component of cartilage glycosaminoglycans. Preclinical research has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity involving TNF-α, IL-6 and NF-κB signaling pathways, while toxicology studies have supported its safety profile.

Q-actin's nomination is supported by a growing body of clinical evidence. Three randomized human studies have demonstrated statistically significant improvements in joint comfort, mobility and physical function. In a six-month head-to-head study involving adults with moderate knee osteoarthritis, Q-actin delivered greater improvements than glucosamine-chondroitin supplementation across multiple measures of joint health despite being administered at a substantially lower daily dose. More recently, a placebo-controlled study reported improvements in joint pain and function among adults experiencing everyday joint discomfort.

Additional research published in 2025 expanded the ingredient's benefit profile beyond joint health. In a study involving healthy older adults, supplementation with Q-actin was associated with improvements in sleep quality, increased levels of a urinary melatonin metabolite, and enhanced fine motor dexterity.

"Consumers increasingly expect nutritional ingredients to be backed by rigorous science," said Shil Kothari, CEO of IminoTech. "This recognition highlights both the quality of the research supporting Q-actin and the emergence of iminosugars as a promising new class of bioactive ingredients."

Q-actin is currently available globally for dietary supplements targeting joint health, mobility, recovery and healthy aging.