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Writer's pictureJoon

The Rise of Korea's Postbiotics: How ILDONG Bioscience is Leading with BBR4401 and RHT3201 (Feat. VitaFoods Asia 2024 Seminar)

The Korean postbiotics market has been rapidly expanding, and ILDONG Bioscience is at the forefront of this innovation. Currently, only two postbiotic ingredients have been approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) for use in functional foods: BBR4401 and RHT3201. These two exclusive ingredients, produced solely by ILDONG Bioscience, are setting new standards in the health functional food industry.

What Makes BBR4401 and RHT3201 Special?

BBR4401 and RHT3201 stand out not only because they are the first postbiotics approved by the MFDS, but also because of their proven effectiveness in improving specific health conditions. Let’s dive deeper into the mechanisms behind these two remarkable postbiotics.


BBR4401: Cholesterol-Lowering Powerhouse

BBR4401, derived from Bifidobacterium breve IDCC 4401, has gained recognition for its ability to lower cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol.


Mechanism of Action: BBR4401 works through several key mechanisms:


  1. Bile Salt Hydrolase (BSH) Activity: This postbiotic helps break down bile acids in the intestines, preventing their reabsorption into the liver. As a result, the liver uses more cholesterol to produce new bile acids, reducing the overall level of cholesterol in the bloodstream.

  2. Cholesterol Absorption Reduction: BBR4401 also binds to cholesterol in the intestines, preventing its absorption and helping to remove excess cholesterol through feces.

  3. Conversion of Cholesterol to Coprostanol: Another way BBR4401 helps lower cholesterol is by converting cholesterol into coprostanol, a compound that is excreted from the body rather than absorbed.


In a clinical trial, BBR4401 significantly reduced LDL cholesterol by up to 10.8% and apolipoprotein B by 8.1% over 12 weeks​. These results indicate that BBR4401 can be a safe and effective option for adults with moderate hypercholesterolemia, offering an alternative to traditional medications that may have undesirable side effects.


RHT3201: Immune-Boosting Postbiotic

RHT3201, derived from Lactobacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201, is a heat-treated (tyndallized) postbiotic that has been shown to enhance immune function. It’s particularly known for its effectiveness in reducing symptoms of atopic dermatitis (AD).


Mechanism of Action: RHT3201’s immune-boosting effects are achieved through the modulation of inflammatory markers:


  1. Reduction in Eosinophil Cationic Protein (ECP): RHT3201 reduces the level of ECP, a protein associated with allergic reactions and inflammation, which is elevated in people with conditions like atopic dermatitis.

  2. Lowering of Interleukin-31 (IL-31): IL-31 is a cytokine linked to the itching and inflammation characteristic of atopic dermatitis. RHT3201 significantly reduces IL-31 levels, thereby alleviating symptoms of this chronic skin condition​.


In a 12-week clinical trial, children with moderate atopic dermatitis who took RHT3201 showed a significant reduction in the SCORing of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index, particularly in long-term AD cases. This makes RHT3201 a promising functional food ingredient for improving skin health through immune modulation.


Revealing Deep Know-How on Postbiotics at VitaFoods Asia

At the upcoming VitaFoods Asia 2024, ILDONG Bioscience will share more about their breakthrough postbiotics, with Sales Team Leader Donghoon Oh as the main speaker. Don’t miss the session on September 18th at 11:45 AM to learn more about how BBR4401 and RHT3201 are revolutionizing the health food market.


ILDONG Bioscience is not only a leader in Korea’s postbiotic market but is also setting a global benchmark for innovation and effectiveness. With BBR4401 and RHT3201, the company has demonstrated the incredible potential of postbiotics to support health, from lowering cholesterol to boosting immune function. As consumer interest in functional foods continues to grow, ILDONG Bioscience is well-positioned to lead this charge with its scientifically-backed, high-quality postbiotic products.

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