Atrium Innovations Starts $5M Metabolic Syndrome Research

QUEBEC CITYAtrium Innovations Inc. is tackling metabolic syndrome with a research partnership with Institute of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (INAF). The two companies, along with support from governmental agencies, will investigate a nutritional approach to the disorder with the goal of creating a comprehensive program that includes dietary supplements. The total current funding for related projects planned and in progress is more than $5 million.

Atriums research involves gaining a better understanding of metabolic syndrome and investigating the impact of nutrition on the prevention and treatment of silent inflammation associated with this condition. More specifically, its research will emphasize the health benefits of small fruits, the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of specific fish oil fractions in the prevention of cardiovascular disease  (CVD), probiotics and systemic enzyme therapy in the management of inflammation and health promotion.

A person is diagnosed with metabolic syndrome when he or she displays a combination of medical conditions known to increase the risk of CVD, stroke and diabetes. Such medical conditions include obesity, excess weight, belly fat, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, hypertension, high blood sugar and high cholesterol levels, as well as proinflammatory and pro-oxidative states.

We have a duty to ensure that health care professionals, their patients and health-conscious consumers have access to safe and effective nutritional products," said Barry W. Ritz, vicepresident, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs.

Based at Université Laval, INAF dedicates all of its research efforts to advancing knowledge in the area of nutrition and health, with an expertise in studying functional food ingredients and dietary supplements.

Atrium Innovations develops, manufactures and commercializes dietary supplements endorsed by health professionals. The Company distributes its products mainly in the health care practitioner and health food and specialized store channels, with a primary focus in North America and Europe. According to its 2010 fourth quarter and full-year financial results for the period ended December 31, 2010, Atrium Innovations grew its revenue by 11.6 percent over 2009 to reach $356.6 million.