The patented cucumber extract, Q-actin, has been nominated for one of the scientific innovation awards at the 2026 Prix Galien UK Awards programme.
Founded in 1970, the Prix Galien Awards are highly esteemed for recognising scientific advancements that enhance human health.
The awards honour exceptional achievements in the fields of pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical technology and public-sector health.
Q-actin is a patented cucumber extract standardised to greater than 1% ido-BR1, a naturally occurring iminosugar found in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.).
Q-actin was nominated by PhytoQuest Limited, the UK company that discovered and developed ido-BR1.
The extract is produced by IminoTech and marketed worldwide as a dietary supplement ingredient for promoting healthy joint function and active ageing.
"Being recognised by the Prix Galien programme is a meaningful validation of the science behind Q-actin and the pioneering work that led to the discovery of ido-BR1," said Dr Robert Nash, founder of PhytoQuest Limited and a leading researcher in iminosugar biology.
While iminosugars have long attracted scientific interest, Q-actin represents the first commercially validated iminosugar ingredient developed for human nutrition.
PhytoQuest said the nomination highlights more than two decades of research into iminosugars, a class of naturally occurring compounds that influence cellular glycobiology.
The active compound in Q-actin, ido-BR1, is structurally related to L-iduronic acid, which is a component of cartilage glycosaminoglycans.
Preclinical research has demonstrated its anti-inflammatory activity, involving TNF-α, IL-6 and NF-κB signalling pathways, while toxicology studies have supported its safety profile.
Q-actin's nomination is backed by clinical evidence from three randomised studies that showed significant improvements in joint comfort, mobility and physical function.
In a six-month study with adults suffering from moderate knee osteoarthritis, Q-actin outperformed glucosamine-chondroitin supplementation despite a lower daily dose.
A recent placebo-controlled study also reported improvements in joint pain and function for adults with everyday joint discomfort.
Additionally, a 2025 study highlighted Q-actin's benefits beyond joint health, showing enhancements in sleep quality, urinary melatonin levels and fine motor dexterity in healthy older adults.
"Consumers increasingly expect nutritional ingredients to be backed by rigorous science," said Shil Kothari, CEO of IminoTech.
This recognition highlights both the quality of the research supporting Q-actin and the emergence of iminosugars as a promising new class of bioactive ingredients.
