AC-11® derives from Uncaria tomentosa, a plant indigenous to the rainforest.  We create AC-11® using a patented, proprietary “aqueous hot water extraction” and purification process standardized to a minimum of 8% Carboxy Alkyl Esters (CAE) concentration.

CAEs are the complex molecular chains that form the primary active components of AC-11®.  They are responsible for approximately 90% of the biological activity in AC-11® relating to DNA repair and immune enhancement.

Our scientists believe that when the body is subjected to stress that may affect the integrity of the DNA (overexposure to the sun for example). AC-11® helps activate enzymes that are instrumental in the repair processes.  In a series of peer reviewed scientific and clinical studies conducted by third party laboratories and university medical centers, AC-11® has been shown to help the body’s natural ability to repair DNA.

Anti ageing studies into AC-11®

AC-11® studies moreover show that the CAEs unique to our product not only enhance significantly the body’s natural ability to repair damaged DNA, but also measurably improve natural collagen III production in the skin.

Collagen III is a form of collagen associated with soft, supple, youthful-looking skin.  As we age, our cells gradually produce less collagen III than they did when we were young.  However, laboratory research shows significant, measurable increases in collagen III production in adult skin cells treated with AC-11®.

AC-11® also helps to normalize the expression of NF-KB in the cells, thereby regulating cellular response to inflammation.  NF-KB is a nuclear transcription factor that influences numerous gene-encoding proteins important in apoptosis (programmed cell death), inflammation and cellular growth.  A normal expression of NF-KB minimizes the hazards of excessive oxidative stress.  An over-expression of NF-KB triggers increased inflammation.

In a human study, AC-11® demonstrated a positive effect on lymphocytes, increasing their life span and, by implication, enhancing the body’s immune system.

AC-11® differs from all other Uncaria tomentosa products. Some of which are sold under the common name “cat’s claw”. Its molecular composition is distinct by virtue of the Optigenex patented process.  AC-11® is standardized, pure, water-soluble and micro-filtered to contain only low weight molecules (<10,000 Daltons).  AC-11® is relatively alkaloid free (<0.05%) and is the only product available anywhere containing a patented class of CAE actives shown by extensive research to have healthy ageing and natural DNA repair enhancement properties.  No other Uncaria tomentosa product can make these claims.  AC-11® moreover has been studied for efficacy and safety for over ten years.