Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Taxifolin/Ergothioneine and Immune Biomarkers in Healthy Volunteers (TaxEr)

This research explores how natural compounds, Taxifolin and Ergothioneine, which are found in everyday foods like fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms, could help boost our immune system. As we age, our immune system can become less effective, making us more prone to infections like the flu. This study aims to understand if these natural substances, known for their antioxidant properties (meaning they help protect our cells from damage), can improve how our immune cells work. We'll be looking at how they influence the immune system in healthy volunteers aged 50-65 years, focusing on how these substances might reduce the impact of ageing on our body's defenses.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Southampton

Enrolment target

Start

10 Nov 2021

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2026

Antioxidative Stress Cold Influenza Aging Inflammation

What is this study about?

Our immune system is incredibly important; it’s our body’s shield against illnesses like colds and flu. What we eat plays a big part in how well this shield works. Eating healthy foods gives our immune system the energy and building blocks it needs to fight off germs. As we get older, it's very normal for our immune system to become a little less effective, a process sometimes called 'immunosensecence'. This means our bodies might not respond as strongly to vaccines, and we could be more likely to catch infections and experience more serious symptoms.

This study is looking at two natural substances: Taxifolin and Ergothioneine. Taxifolin is found in foods like apples and onions, while Ergothioneine is in mushrooms and oats. Both are known for being antioxidants, which means they help protect our cells from damage. We want to find out if taking these substances can help improve our immune function, especially for people aged 50 to 65. We believe they might help by reducing stress on our immune cells, potentially slowing down some of the age-related changes we see in the immune system.

Even though official guidelines recommend eating at least five portions of fruits and vegetables every day, many of us don't quite manage that. These foods are packed with beneficial compounds, including antioxidants, which are thought to be key to good health. This study is an important step in understanding how specific natural antioxidants found in our diet can influence our immune system. By carefully studying healthy volunteers, we hope to learn more about how to support our immune health as we age.

Key takeaways

This study investigates natural compounds for immune system support.
It focuses on healthy adults aged 50-65.
The goal is to understand how these compounds affect ageing immunity.
Participants will avoid certain foods and supplements.
The research aims to improve our understanding of diet and immune health.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, you need to be a healthy adult between 50 and 65 years old. Your body mass index (BMI) should be between 18.5 and 30, which is considered a healthy weight to moderately overweight range. It's really important that you're willing to temporarily avoid certain foods that are rich in Taxifolin (like apples, onions) and Ergothioneine (like mushrooms, oats) while you're part of the study. You also shouldn't be taking other food supplements or high-dose vitamins during this time.

There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you're taking any prescribed medications that could affect your immune system, such as those for inflammation or to suppress your immune system, you wouldn't be suitable. This also includes if you have diabetes that requires medication, certain liver conditions, or a history of drug or alcohol misuse.

We also can't include anyone who has had certain serious health conditions like spleen removal, other immune problems, autoimmune diseases, or cancer. If you've had a confirmed COVID-19 infection in the past three months, or if you've had a recent infection (including taking antibiotics in the last three months), you wouldn't be able to take part. Finally, you must be able to understand and sign a consent form, showing you agree to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 50 and 65 years old?
Is your BMI between 18.5 and 30?
Can you avoid foods like apples, onions, mushrooms, and oats during the study?
Are you able to avoid other supplements or high-dose vitamins?
Do you have no diagnosed medical conditions that affect your immune system?
Have you not had a confirmed COVID-19 infection or other infection (with antibiotics) in the last 3 months?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be assigned to take either Taxifolin, Ergothioneine, or a control (a dummy pill) for a certain period. The study will involve giving blood samples so we can look at how your immune cells are working both before and after taking the substances. We'll specifically be checking how well your immune cells can fight off germs and respond to challenges. You'll also need to follow special dietary instructions, mainly avoiding foods that are rich in the substances we're studying, and avoid other supplements or high-dose vitamins. The exact number of visits, overall duration, and specific assessments will be fully explained during the screening process, but it will involve several appointments over weeks or months, with tests focused on your immune system.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer you the benefit of contributing to our understanding of how diet can support immune health, especially as we age. While we don't expect serious risks, there's always a small chance of mild side effects from either the study substances or procedures like blood draws (e.g., bruising or discomfort). Your safety and well-being are our top priority, and you'll be closely monitored. Remember, you can choose to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre
Verified postcode
Southampton, United Kingdom

Common questions

What are Taxifolin and Ergothioneine?

They are natural substances found in certain foods, like fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms, known for helping to protect our body's cells.

Why is this study important for older adults?

As we age, our immune system can become weaker, so this study is looking at whether these natural substances can help keep it strong and healthy.

Will I know if I'm getting the actual substance or a dummy pill?

No, it's a 'blinded' study, meaning neither you nor the researchers will know until the study is over, to make the results fair.

Do I need to change my diet for this study?

Yes, you'll be asked to avoid certain foods rich in Taxifolin and Ergothioneine while you are taking part.

What happens if I decide I don't want to continue?

You are free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, and it won't affect your medical care.