Department of Trichology, Cosmetology and Neutraceutics
Historical background
D.I. Mendeleev predicted in 1987 the future discovery of a then yet unknown element that would be similar to silica, using the periodic law that he discovered. The description of the qualities that this new element would supposedly have, according to him, as well as his prediction of its chemical and physical qualities were surprisingly accurate. His analysis was proven to be accurate 15 years later, when Professor K. Winkler picked out an unknown element almost identical to the one Mendeleev had described. Because the actual discovery itself was made by Winkler, it was his choice to name the element germanium in honor of his homeland.
Germanium is a relatively rare element. Only several minerals are known to contain germanium, with the maximum content of germanium in any only being several percent.
Very small amounts of it can be found in mineral water sources, the soil and in the organisms of plants and animals. It had already been established in the first half of the XX century that germanium can be found in some varieties of coal (<0.1%).
The biological role of germanium
For both animals and humans alike, germanium is a biologically active microelement. Ultra small doses of germanium had also previously been found to be vital for the immune system (WHO, 1998, 2001). [1] Germanium is one of the microelements that is present in the metabolical processes in the human organism (the recommended daily allowance for germanium is 0.4 – 1.5 mg). It is a biologically active microelement and is present in practically all of the organs and tissues of the human body (muscle tissue, blood, brain, lungs, spleen, stomach, liver, pancreas, thyroid gland, kidneys, etc.)
The first scientist interested in studying germanium for medicinal purposes was Dr. Kazuhiko Asai from Japan (1940), who is now considered to be the founder of modern organic germanium medicine.
Dr. Kazuhiko Asai and his assistants determined the germanium content in many plants found to be beneficial to human health, including those consumed as food and those used in medicine. They were surprised to discover a high content of germanium in many plants used in Chinese and Tibetan traditional medicine. It turned out that in some plants the germanium content is only 0.0015-0.002%, but in others, tubular mushrooms for example, the germanium content is 50-100 times higher. Germanium content between 0.02 and 0.07% of the plant was found in ginseng, tea leaves, aloe, bamboo, chlorella and garlic. For a long time, tubular mushrooms and fungi have been used to treat cancer in traditional medicine around the world.
On the Korean peninsula, as well as in many other places in the Far East, the population consumes relatively (compared to Europeans) large amounts of garlic daily, and garlic is known to be rich in germanium. It is possible that the surprisingly low number of cancer patients in the region (compared to more developed regions) is related to the increased garlic consumption.
However, a study carried out recently in Russia, analyzing several types of edible products and the amount of germanium they contain, has shown that during the last 40 years, the content of germanium has fallen by hundreds of times, meaning there is now a significant deficit of the microelement (see Table 1).
| Food | Germanium content, µg /gram | ||
| 1967 [23] | 2007 | ||
|
Tomato juice |
5,76 |
0,051 |
|
|
Milk |
1,51 |
0,082 |
|
|
Garlic |
0,75 |
0,25 |
|
|
Coffee |
0,5 |
0,05 |
|
|
Breast milk |
- |
0,17 |
|
|
Chyawanprash (India) |
- |
1,9 |
|
Table 1. A comparison of germanium content over time in various foods.
This is mainly caused by the food refinement processes and soil erosion. However, relatively large amounts of germanium remain present in a number of wild herbs and mushrooms used medicinally in Asia, namely Tibet (lingzhi mushrooms, ginseng) and India (chyawanprash).
In plants (and other living organisms), germanium atoms are tied to organic molecules and occur naturally as part of biologically active germanium compounds and complexes.
Science labs in Japan, Germany, France, Korea and a number of other countries continue to carry out active research on organic germanium compounds and the best extraction methods thereof, with emphasis being placed on the extraction of water-soluble forms of the compounds, which are guaranteed to be highly bioavailiable. Medicinal products requiring low concentrations of medicine can also be crafted from these types of compounds.
Clinical use and past experience
Germanium has been used clinically for over 40 years. The Japanese were the first to use organic germanium compounds medicinally. Dr. Kazuhiko Asai in 1967 synthesized the first organic Germanic compound, now known as germanium-132 (Japanese patent # 46-2964 (1971), 60-41472 (1985), 59-25677 (1984)).
However, Soviet scientists were also crucial to the discovery and development of this branch of medicine, particularly USSR Academy of Sciences correspondence member M.G. Voronkov and Professor V.F. Mironov, who had been synthesizing organic germanium compounds in the USSR in the 1960’s, with the same compounds later forming the basis for the Japanese Germanium-132.[2] Unfortunately, the USSR decided against further studies of organic germanium, with the data finding use in Japan, where scientists would then take over from their Russian counterparts and study this potential branch of medicine in detail, making significant advances.[3]
Dr. Kazuhiko Asai proved that the newly discovered germanium compound is biologically active: it slows down the development of several different malignant formations, acts as a painkiller and to some degree protects from radiation.
The anti-tumor qualities of germanium-132 were discovered in 1968, and proven again several times later on. [4, 5] Varying further tests in many different countries around the world have shown germanium-132 to have a host of other beneficial qualities (antiviral, qualities promoting interferon induction, adaptogenic, cardio- and hepatoprotective, antitoxic, analgesic, hypotensive, antianemic, etc. [6-9]). Thanks to its unique properties, germanium can also influence various biochemical properties, namely stimulation of oxygen saturation of tissues, detoxification of the body from poisons and toxins, speeding up the healing of wounds, beneficial effects on the composition of blood, strengthening of the immune system, etc.
It was discovered however, that the germanium-132 compound is prone to polymerization, and its high molecular weight compounds are not very soluble in water.
In the USA, another organic germanium anti-tumor product called Spirogermanium was developed and patented in the 1970’s.
In the mid 1980’s, active steps were being undertaken in South Korea by Dr. Tsang Uk Sohn towards further study of organic germanium compounds. As a result, the drug Bio-germanium was created. [10]
As such, all studies carried out both by manufacturers of the compounds and by other scientists demonstrate high levels of biological activity (antitumor, immunomodulation, antitoxic, antiviral, etc.) of various organic germanium compounds and the possibility for their use in therapeutic branches of medicine.
One of the theories about the effect of germanium on the body
The high organic germanium content in the blood allowed Dr. Kazuhiko Asai to come forward with the following theory. It is assumed that organic germanium in the blood behaves similarly to hemoglobin, which is also negatively charged, and also like hemoglobin, it is involved in the distribution of oxygen among the bodily tissues, thereby preventing hypoxia in the tissues.
During the study of damaged tissues, it was established that they always display a characteristic lack of oxygen and a presence of positively-charged H+ hydrogen ions. They have an exceedingly negative effect on the human cells up until their death. Oxygen ions, which possess the ability to bond with the hydrogen ions, allow for local selective compensation of the damage done by the hydrogen ions to the cells and tissues of the organism.
The unimpeded transit of oxygen between tissues should guarantee the proper functioning of all of the bodily systems. Organic germanium displays pronounced hydrogen transporting abilities, which ensure that the oxygen is being delivered to all parts of the body, as well as having it bond with hydrogen ions.
Furthermore, organic germanium compounds are non-toxic, do not have any side effects, and keep on functioning in the organism for a relatively long time, making them extremely useful from a medicinal point of view.
Unique organic germanium complexes as part of the Femegyl cosmetics range
In cosmetics products, germanium plays the role of an antihypoxant and a powerful antioxidant, speeds up regenerative processes, promotes defense mechanisms against outside negative effects (increases the body’s immunity to diseases, protects against bacteria), and also acts as a mild painkiller.
FEMEGYL cosmetic products make use of unique organic germanium complexes, which increase the solubility and bioavailiability of its components, activate tissue respiration and possess antioxidizing properties.
Their presence benefits the FEMEGYL range by setting it apart from other products presented in the same cosmetology segment.
The FEMEGYL line is represented by two chemical peels with germanium.
FEMEGYL® Lactogermanium delicate chemical peels with hyaluronic acid
FEMEGYL® Azelogermanium delicate chemical peels with hyaluronic acid
Azelaic acid is present as one of the active ingredients in the Azelogermanium delicate chemical peels.
Azelaic acid a dicarbon acid, it displays antimicrobial qualities and reduces the amount of keratin produced (keratin is a substance produced in the human body, which can also lead to the appearance of acne). [11] The precise mechanism of its effects is still not clear to researchers. Its antibacterial qualities can be tied to the inhibition of protein synthesis in microbial cells. During in vitro research, it was concluded that azelaic acid is a reversible inhibitor of tyrosinase. Both naturally, as well as in vitro, it displays antibacterial qualities both against airborne and anaerobic (Propionibacterium) microorganisms.
Azelaic acid possesses both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities. Many years of experience in clinical use have shown its positive effects on various types of acne. At the same time, azelaic acid has a low solubility (0.2%) and a low bioavailiability. Since its concentration in products for local application should reach 15-20%, the use of such products can often lead to irritation and damaged skin.
Research is currently being conducted in order to increase the bioavailiability of azelaic acid and its chemical derivatives.
In particular, as a result of multiple years of research undertaken by the specialists of WDS Pharma, unique organic germanium derivatives have been synthesized.
As part of a complex containing azelaic acid, the derivatives were at first introduced as ingredients of the WDS-3 cream and gel in varying concentrations. After that, a comparative evaluation of the sensitivity of Propionibacterium acnes to azelaic acid-based drugs was carried out as an in vitro experiment. The research was carried out at the OOO “Olfarm” testing laboratory in Moscow, overseen by the State Antibiotics Research Center (accreditation certificate number РОСС RU.0001.21.ФЛ10, 09.10.2009). In the experiment, which was carried out by means of diffusing into agar the medicinal forms of the WDS-3 gel and cream containing a complex of azelaic acid and germanium, the tested samples showed a much higher level of activity towards Propionibacterium acnes than the test group products. The results of the comparative evaluation can be seen in Table 2.
Table 2. The results of the comparative evaluation of the antibacterial activity of the medicinal forms of the azelaic acid products in relation to Propionibacterium acnes by means of diffusion into agar (1:5 solution)
|
Microorganism |
Diameter of the microorganism growth suppression zone in the presence of the drug samples (mm) |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
«Control comparison»
gel 15% |
«Control comparison»
cream 20% |
WDS-3 gel 3% |
WDS-3 gel 5% |
WDS-3 cream 3% |
WDS-3 cream 5% |
|
|
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
7 |
|
Propionibacterium acnes 5592 |
12,5 |
15,5 |
17,5 |
22 |
18,5 |
27 |
|
Propionibacterium acnes А-1 |
15,5 |
15 |
25 |
17 |
24 |
30 |
It should be noted however, that the amount of the azelaic acid itself in the WDS-3 compounds is significantly less than in the control compounds used for the comparison testing.
It is possible that one of the factors causing the high activity of the compound in regards to Propionibacterium acnes is the greater solubility of the WDS-3 compound (>10%) compared to normal azelaic acid (0.2%). Furthermore, the effects could have been strengthened by the presence of organic germanium, which optimizes the structure of azelaic acid.
This has allowed azelogermanium to be called a new antimicrobial agent against acne and to for it to be included in the effective FEMEGYL delicate chemical peels.
As a component in the unique Azelogermanium FEMEGYL Delicate chemical peel with hyaluronic acid, azelogermanium acts alongside hyaluronic acid. The peel affects the skin gently, without irritating or damaging it. Has a peeling, whitening and moisturizing effect. Stimulates the skin cells, including stimulating them to synthesize collagen. Improves microcirculation and restores the skin. Effectively combats various cases of acne.
The product’s distinctive feature is the absence of any rehabilitation period for the skin after the procedure, as well as the potential to carry the procedure out regardless of the solar radiation period.
FEMEGYL® Lactogermanium Delicate chemical peel with hyaluronic acid
The lactogermanium complex and hyaluronic acid gently exfoliate the skin without irritating or damaging it. The product gently exfoliates and deeply moisturizes the skin, stimulating the cells to synthesize collagen. Improves the microcirculation of the skin, as well as tissue respiration. Effectively restores the skin in the post-acne period.
Aside from chemical peels, the FEMEGYL line is also represented by the Moisturizing Lotion-tonic for skin of the face, neck, and neckline areas.
It was also developed from an organic germanium compound. Allows for the restoration of the natural balance and the defensive function of the skin, possesses pronounced antioxidizing qualities. Has a soothing and a moisturizing effect. Relieves irritation and tightness of the skin. This highly effective compound allows the cleansing process of the skin to be completed, and is recommended for everyday use for prevention and correction of age-related changes of the skin.
In the nearest future, the FEMEGYL line of products will be supplemented with more products based on organic germanium compounds. FEMEGYL can be rightly considered a unique combination of the most advanced scientific developments realized with the help of hi-tech manufacturing and the combined global cosmetological experience of many dermatologists, cosmetologists and chemical engineers.
Literature
1. Ребров В.Г., Громова О.А. Витамины и микроэлементы: Москва, 2003 г.
2. Mironov V. F., E. M. Berliner, and T. K. Gar, “Reactions of trichlorogermane with acrylic acid and its derivatives,” Zhurnal Obshchei Khimii, vol. 37, pp. 911–912, 1967.
3. K. Asai, Miracle Cure: Organic Germanium, Japan Publications, New York, NY, USA, 1980.
4. Suzuki F. Antitumor mechanisms of carboxyethyl-germanium sesquioxide (Ge-132) in mice bearing Ehrlich ascites tumors. Gan To Kagaku Ryoho 1987;14(1):127-134.
5. Shangguan G., F. Xing, X. Qu, et al., “DNA binding specificity and cytotoxicity of novel antitumor agent Ge132 derivatives,” Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters, vol. 15, no. 12, pp. 2962–2965, 2005.
6. Aso, H., Suzuki, F., Ebina, T. And Ishida, N., ’Antiviral activity of carboxyethylgermanium ses quioxide (Ge-132) in mice infected with influenza virus‘. J. Biol. Response Mod., 8(2), 180-9, 1989.
7. Unakar NJ, Tsui J, Johnson M. Effect of pretreatment of germanium-132 on Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase and galactose cataracts. Current Eye Research 1997;16(8):832-837.
8. Chang Ki, K., Cha Ho, J. and Jong Ku, K., ’Effects of Geranti (Biosynthesized Organic Germanium) on the Anticancer and Immuno-enhancement‘. Chungbuk National University, Korea, Research Institute of Animal Medicine, 1995.
9. Germanium: the health and life enhancer. Sandra Goodman http://www.drsgoodman.com/books-goodman/51-germanium-book
10. Chang Ki, K., Cha Ho, J. and Jong Ku, K., ’Effects of Geranti (Biosynthesized Organic Germanium) on the Anticancer and Immuno-enhancement‘. Chungbuk National University, Korea, Research Institute of Animal Medicine, 1995.
11. Christian Krolla, Andreas Langnera, Hans-Hubert Borcherta; Nitroxide metabolism in the human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT, Free Radical Biology and Medicine, Volume 26, Issues 7–8, April 1999, Pages 850–857.
12. Исаев А.Д., Манашеров Т.О., Амбросов И.В., Матело С.К. Комплексные соединения германия с аминокислотами и карбоновыми кислотами. Патент на изобретение №2476436. Зарегистрирован 27 февраля 2013 г.