EP1LOGUE
The story of (-)/- Epicatechin began as a feel good story that ended in heartbreak. That heartbreak of bodybuilders worldwide who were expecting mythical muscle gains. A flavanol found in the cocoa plant and green tea, Epicatechin, generated keen interest from the supplement industry. Research in rodents suggested Epicatechin demonstrated an ability to suppress a protein in the body, myostatin, that prevents the increase of muscle size and differentiation. Since Olympus Labs is on the leading edge of new ingredient research, we took a risk on Epicatechin and released EP1C. Regrettably, the majority of customers did not experience a noticeable increase in strength because it was discovered the bioavailability of the Epicatechin in humans is poor.
Undeterred by the setback, Olympus Labs devoted extensive time and expense to develop a delivery system to resolve the bioavailability issue. That effort produced PhytoFUSETM, an enhanced delivery system that research had shown could enhance the potency anywhere from 2x-6x. The next chapter of epicatechin commenced with EP1C UNLEASHED which users responded much better to and it subsequently grew in popularity. However, there was one problem, despite the increased absorption the product still did not elicit the strength increases that the research had suggested. Sadly, Olympus Labs decided to conclude the story on Epicatechin and discontinue EP1C UNLEASHED.
At the end of a story there is an epilogue, which may further explain and in some cases provide a preview a sequel. In this case, there is an EP1LOGUE and there is a simple explanation, it is the end of mediocrity. A new story has begun where the reputation of Epicatechin will be reconstructed. Olympus Labs does not accept defeat because DemiGods can persevere through any challenge. Our adept R&D team sought to complement Epicatechin PhytoFUSETM with innovative and effective compounds to finally establish some credibility for the ingredient. The outcome is nothing short of remarkable as EP1LOGUE is a powerful muscle builder, an intense pump inducer, and exercise enhancer. EP1LOGUE represents the moment where mere mortals transcend into DemiGods.
The anchor ingredient in EP1LOGUE is Epicatechin PhytoFUSETM.at a substantial dose of 600mg. However, what separates EP1LOGUE is the complementary ingredients that give the Epicatechin PhytoFUSETM a turbo boost. That boost is accomplished with the addition of an ingredient we brought to the market in RE1GN, VASO-6™, at 300mg. VASO-6™ is an innovative ingredient which we dubbed “Super Epicatechin”. It was first studied and funded through the University of South Florida and it significantly increases vasodilation, stimulates blood flow and activates muscle hypertrophy.
The formula is perfected with a new and innovative compound that, once again, Olympus Labs introduces to the supplement industry with Urolithin B. An innovative ingredient that research has shown can inhibit protein catabolism and simultaneously increase protein synthesis. Urolithin B is essentially a bodybuilders dream, a natural ingredient that helps to build lean muscle while preventing muscle breakdown. We included Urolithin B in EP1LOGUE at a significant dose of 150mg to serve as the perfect complement to epicatechin and VASO-6™.
It is time to make it RE1GN with an innovative and multi-faceted supplement that goes beyond muscle building to enhance blood flow, endurance and body composition. A new chapter begins where men become K1NGS, it begins with EP1LOGUE.
Epicatechin PhytoFUSETM
Epicatechin is a flavanol found in cocoa seeds and green tea that has been found to act as a myostatin inhibitor. Myostatin is a protein that inhibits muscle cell growth and differentiation, so blocking its action is beneficial to those seeking additional muscle mass. Other studies have demonstrated that supplementation with Epicatechin could increase follistatin, a protein which binds to and inhibits myostatin, by 2.5 times. In addition, Epicatechin was found to enhance exercise capacity and cardiovascular health. However, as previously mentioned that research failed to uncover that Epicatechin has poor bioavailability in humans.
Enter PhytoFUSETM, a unique delivery technology, that enhances the bioavailability and absorption of Epicatechin. Research has shown that this method of delivery can enhance potency anywhere from 2x-6x! PhytoFUSETM utilizes specific lipids to complex with Epicatechin on a molecular level, allowing for greater solubility and enhanced bioavailability/absorption. It ultimately helps to effectively shuttle the active ingredient to the intestines where it can be taken up while preventing degradation throughout the process. This means that more ingredient is delivered to the site where it can be utilized effectively, ready to be delivered to the bloodstream and flood your muscles with potent myogenic factors needed to transcend into a Demigod!
In a pilot trial with (-)/-Epicatechin, human subjects received either a single dose (n = 9) of 50, 100 or 200 mg or multiple doses (n = 8) of 50 mg daily (q.d.) or twice daily (b.i.d) for 5 days. In the q.d. and b.i.d. groups, blood samples were analyzed for NO surrogates and follistatin levels as well as, platelet mitochondrial complexes I, V and citrate synthase activity levels. On day 5, in the q.d. and b.i.d. groups, there were significant increases in plasma nitrite of 30% and 17%, respectively. In the q.d. group on day 5 vs. day 1, platelet mitochondrial complexes I, IV and citrate synthase activities demonstrated a significant increase of ∼92, 62 and 8%, respectively. Average day 5 follistatin AUC levels were ∼2.5 fold higher vs. day 1 AUC levels in the b.i.d. group. There were no adverse effects observed from consumption of (−)-EPI therefore it was deemed safe to use. These findings suggest that (−)-EPI can elicit increases in NO metabolites, mitochondrial enzyme function and plasma follistatin levels as reported in other studies.
Vaso6™
Vaso6™ is a gallate-enhanced oligomer made up of dimers, trimers, tetramers and pentamers that is a powerful stimulator of nitric oxide production. It can be derived from the extracts of grape seed or green tea. Research has shown that extracts of grape seeds (GSE) causes endothelium dependent relaxation (EDR) activity in vitro. EDR activity involves the release of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) release and subsequent increase in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP) levels in the vascular smooth muscle cells ultimately increasing vasodilation and blood flow. So why not just use grape seed extract which is inexpensive and widely available? Because Vaso6™ only contains the components of GSE that are EDR active, meaning it only contains the components that will improve blood flow.
Further isolation and characterization of GSE was performed by scientists from the University of South Florida, using a process known as Toyopearl Fractionation, that identified the extract could be separated into seven fractions (A–G). Only fractions (D–G) were EDR-active so they were further separated into 25 individual compound peaks by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), 16 of which were EDR active. Analysis of these 16 peaks identified Procyanidin content, which are oligomeric compounds formed from catechin and epicatechin molecules. Peak G6, a trimeric procyanidin gallate, was identified as the peak that had the highest EDR activity and was confirmed as
Epicatechin-(4-8)-Epicatechin-(4-8)-Epicatechin-Gallate, hence the reason we refer to it as Superior Epicatechin. Vaso6™ contains only the peaks and fractions of GSE with the highest EDR activity including peak G6, hence the name Vaso6™.
Furthermore, the gallate-enhanced catechins in Vaso6™ activate the enzyme eNOS to produce NO. The enhancement of blood flow caused by Vaso6™ improves the shuttling of glucose, insulin and other nutrients to metabolic targets. Glucose and nutrient uptake is a critical step to activating muscle protein synthesis. Therefore, you want the extreme vasodilation that Vaso6™ provides prior to your workout. Furthermore, Nitric Oxide mediates muscle hypertrophy. Upon mechanical loading, NO reacts with superoxide to generate peroxynitrite. The latter then activates the TRPV1 (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1) channel, causing an increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels via release from the sarcoplasmatic reticulum. Such elevation causes an increase in protein synthesis through TORC1 activation. Recent studies demonstrate that NO-synthase participates in the regulation of protein and energy metabolism in skeletal muscle by fine-tuning and stabilizing complex signaling systems which regulate protein synthesis and degradation.
NOS activation during muscle stretching or resisting exercise initiates proliferation of G0-satellite cells. Released NO passes through the sarcolemma, and activates hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) through the activity of matrix metalloproteinases. Activated HGF interacts with c-met receptors of satellite cells, promoting their entrance into the cell cycle. Therefore, during resistance exercises NO works as an activator and as a regulator of signaling, and as a trigger of muscle hypertrophy. The end result is a functional pump!
To summarize, Vaso6™ enhances exercise capacity and endurance. It also increases vasodilation and blood flow which ultimately improves the shuttling of glucose, insulin and other nutrients to your muscles. The end result is the activation of muscle protein synthesis. In short, better performance and bigger muscles.
Urolithin B
Urolithin B is one of four metabolites of ellagic acid or ellagitannins. The first product of ellagic acid catabolism is urolithin D, and with the successive losses of hydroxy groups urolithins C, A, and B are formed. All mammals seem able to produce urolithins from the microflora in the gastrointestinal tract after the ingestion of some fruits. In healthy humans, urolithins A and B are most abundant. Research has shown supplementing the diet with ellagitannins mitigates muscle damage experienced during intense exercise and protects muscle against stresses induced by a high-fat diet. However, since ellagitannins are known to have low bioavailability, it is believed that ellagitannin-derived metabolites are responsible for the reported effects. Therefore, the focus of clinical research has focused on characterizing the effects of urolithins themselves.
Through that effort it was observed that myotubes in culture were bigger after incubation with Urolithin B. What this really means is that Urolithin B holds tremendous promise to increase skeletal muscle mass. Clinical research on Urolithin B in mice found that it enhanced myotubes growth and differentiation by increasing protein synthesis. It demonstrated an ability to inhibit the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP), the principal mechanism for protein catabolism. It also induced muscle hypertrophy and reduced muscle atrophy. Signalling analyses indicate a connection between the androgen receptor and the mTORC1 pathway, possibly via AMPK. Olympus Labs is extremely excited to bring this powerful compound to the market. It is the crown jewel of the formula and the ultimate catalyst in the quest RE!GN supreme!
Conclusion
EP1LOGUE my seem like a simple, three ingredient formula. But do not be deceived by fancy kitchen sink formulas with underdosed compounds, inferior extracts and worse ineffective ingredients. EP1LOGUE is the antithesis to muscle building supplements on the market. It embodies Innovation, Value and Results. A product that significantly enhances exercise performance via increased blood flow and endurance. A product that build lean skeletal muscle whilst preventing muscle breakdown. EP1LOGUE will initiate your transformation from a mere mortal to a DemiGod. However, the benefit will build over time as Vaso6™ and Urolithin B both increase protein synthesis, making you bigger and stronger.
Are you ready to Make It RE1GN? Olympus Labs continues to bring you the most innovative and effective supplements in the industry. There is no other company that can match that expertise of our R&D team. EP1LOGUE is the latest example of our unparalleled genius, but surely is not the las
References:
Barnett C et al. Food Funct., 2015,6, 824-833. DOI: 10.1039/C4FO00596A. Pharmacokinetic, partial pharmacodynamic and initial safety analysis of (−)-epicatechin in healthy volunteers.
Jimenez et al. Free Radic Biol Med. 2012 Jan 1;52(1):70-9. doi:10.1016/ j.freeradbiomed.2011.09.015. Epub 2011 Sep 22. Epicatechin lowers blood pressure, restores endothelial function, and decreases oxidative stress and endothelin-1 and NADPH oxidase activity in DOCA-salt hypertension.
Ciaraldi, T et al. J Nutr Biochem. Effects of (−)-epicatechin on molecular modulators of skeletal muscle growth and differentiation
Dept of Pharmacology. Fitzpatrick D et al. Isolation and Characterization of Endothelium-Dependent Vasorelaxing Compounds from Grape Seeds. 2000.
Dept of Pharmacology. Fitzpatrick D et al. Vasodilating Procyanidins Derived from Grape Seeds. 2002.
Lee S-J et al. PLoS ONE 12(4): e0175271. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. Pone.0175271. 2017. Epicatechin elicits MyoD- dependent myoblast differentiation and myogenic conversion of fibroblasts.
Rodriguez, J et al. 2017 - Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle - Wiley. Urolithin B, a newly identified regulator of skeletal muscle mass
The story of (-)/- Epicatechin began as a feel good story that ended in heartbreak. That heartbreak of bodybuilders worldwide who were expecting mythical muscle gains. A flavanol found in the cocoa plant and green tea, Epicatechin, generated keen interest from the supplement industry. Research in rodents suggested Epicatechin demonstrated an ability to suppress a protein in the body, myostatin, that prevents the increase of muscle size and differentiation. Since Olympus Labs is on the leading edge of new ingredient research, we took a risk on Epicatechin and released EP1C. Regrettably, the majority of customers did not experience a noticeable increase in strength because it was discovered the bioavailability of the Epicatechin in humans is poor.
Undeterred by the setback, Olympus Labs devoted extensive time and expense to develop a delivery system to resolve the bioavailability issue. That effort produced PhytoFUSETM, an enhanced delivery system that research had shown could enhance the potency anywhere from 2x-6x. The next chapter of epicatechin commenced with EP1C UNLEASHED which users responded much better to and it subsequently grew in popularity. However, there was one problem, despite the increased absorption the product still did not elicit the strength increases that the research had suggested. Sadly, Olympus Labs decided to conclude the story on Epicatechin and discontinue EP1C UNLEASHED.
At the end of a story there is an epilogue, which may further explain and in some cases provide a preview a sequel. In this case, there is an EP1LOGUE and there is a simple explanation, it is the end of mediocrity. A new story has begun where the reputation of Epicatechin will be reconstructed. Olympus Labs does not accept defeat because DemiGods can persevere through any challenge. Our adept R&D team sought to complement Epicatechin PhytoFUSETM with innovative and effective compounds to finally establish some credibility for the ingredient. The outcome is nothing short of remarkable as EP1LOGUE is a powerful muscle builder, an intense pump inducer, and exercise enhancer. EP1LOGUE represents the moment where mere mortals transcend into DemiGods.
The anchor ingredient in EP1LOGUE is Epicatechin PhytoFUSETM.at a substantial dose of 600mg. However, what separates EP1LOGUE is the complementary ingredients that give the Epicatechin PhytoFUSETM a turbo boost. That boost is accomplished with the addition of an ingredient we brought to the market in RE1GN, VASO-6™, at 300mg. VASO-6™ is an innovative ingredient which we dubbed “Super Epicatechin”. It was first studied and funded through the University of South Florida and it significantly increases vasodilation, stimulates blood flow and activates muscle hypertrophy.
The formula is perfected with a new and innovative compound that, once again, Olympus Labs introduces to the supplement industry with Urolithin B. An innovative ingredient that research has shown can inhibit protein catabolism and simultaneously increase protein synthesis. Urolithin B is essentially a bodybuilders dream, a natural ingredient that helps to build lean muscle while preventing muscle breakdown. We included Urolithin B in EP1LOGUE at a significant dose of 150mg to serve as the perfect complement to epicatechin and VASO-6™.
It is time to make it RE1GN with an innovative and multi-faceted supplement that goes beyond muscle building to enhance blood flow, endurance and body composition. A new chapter begins where men become K1NGS, it begins with EP1LOGUE.
Epicatechin PhytoFUSETM
Epicatechin is a flavanol found in cocoa seeds and green tea that has been found to act as a myostatin inhibitor. Myostatin is a protein that inhibits muscle cell growth and differentiation, so blocking its action is beneficial to those seeking additional muscle mass. Other studies have demonstrated that supplementation with Epicatechin could increase follistatin, a protein which binds to and inhibits myostatin, by 2.5 times. In addition, Epicatechin was found to enhance exercise capacity and cardiovascular health. However, as previously mentioned that research failed to uncover that Epicatechin has poor bioavailability in humans.
Enter PhytoFUSETM, a unique delivery technology, that enhances the bioavailability and absorption of Epicatechin. Research has shown that this method of delivery can enhance potency anywhere from 2x-6x! PhytoFUSETM utilizes specific lipids to complex with Epicatechin on a molecular level, allowing for greater solubility and enhanced bioavailability/absorption. It ultimately helps to effectively shuttle the active ingredient to the intestines where it can be taken up while preventing degradation throughout the process. This means that more ingredient is delivered to the site where it can be utilized effectively, ready to be delivered to the bloodstream and flood your muscles with potent myogenic factors needed to transcend into a Demigod!
In a pilot trial with (-)/-Epicatechin, human subjects received either a single dose (n = 9) of 50, 100 or 200 mg or multiple doses (n = 8) of 50 mg daily (q.d.) or twice daily (b.i.d) for 5 days. In the q.d. and b.i.d. groups, blood samples were analyzed for NO surrogates and follistatin levels as well as, platelet mitochondrial complexes I, V and citrate synthase activity levels. On day 5, in the q.d. and b.i.d. groups, there were significant increases in plasma nitrite of 30% and 17%, respectively. In the q.d. group on day 5 vs. day 1, platelet mitochondrial complexes I, IV and citrate synthase activities demonstrated a significant increase of ∼92, 62 and 8%, respectively. Average day 5 follistatin AUC levels were ∼2.5 fold higher vs. day 1 AUC levels in the b.i.d. group. There were no adverse effects observed from consumption of (−)-EPI therefore it was deemed safe to use. These findings suggest that (−)-EPI can elicit increases in NO metabolites, mitochondrial enzyme function and plasma follistatin levels as reported in other studies.
Vaso6™
Vaso6™ is a gallate-enhanced oligomer made up of dimers, trimers, tetramers and pentamers that is a powerful stimulator of nitric oxide production. It can be derived from the extracts of grape seed or green tea. Research has shown that extracts of grape seeds (GSE) causes endothelium dependent relaxation (EDR) activity in vitro. EDR activity involves the release of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) release and subsequent increase in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP) levels in the vascular smooth muscle cells ultimately increasing vasodilation and blood flow. So why not just use grape seed extract which is inexpensive and widely available? Because Vaso6™ only contains the components of GSE that are EDR active, meaning it only contains the components that will improve blood flow.
Further isolation and characterization of GSE was performed by scientists from the University of South Florida, using a process known as Toyopearl Fractionation, that identified the extract could be separated into seven fractions (A–G). Only fractions (D–G) were EDR-active so they were further separated into 25 individual compound peaks by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), 16 of which were EDR active. Analysis of these 16 peaks identified Procyanidin content, which are oligomeric compounds formed from catechin and epicatechin molecules. Peak G6, a trimeric procyanidin gallate, was identified as the peak that had the highest EDR activity and was confirmed as
Epicatechin-(4-8)-Epicatechin-(4-8)-Epicatechin-Gallate, hence the reason we refer to it as Superior Epicatechin. Vaso6™ contains only the peaks and fractions of GSE with the highest EDR activity including peak G6, hence the name Vaso6™.
Furthermore, the gallate-enhanced catechins in Vaso6™ activate the enzyme eNOS to produce NO. The enhancement of blood flow caused by Vaso6™ improves the shuttling of glucose, insulin and other nutrients to metabolic targets. Glucose and nutrient uptake is a critical step to activating muscle protein synthesis. Therefore, you want the extreme vasodilation that Vaso6™ provides prior to your workout. Furthermore, Nitric Oxide mediates muscle hypertrophy. Upon mechanical loading, NO reacts with superoxide to generate peroxynitrite. The latter then activates the TRPV1 (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1) channel, causing an increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels via release from the sarcoplasmatic reticulum. Such elevation causes an increase in protein synthesis through TORC1 activation. Recent studies demonstrate that NO-synthase participates in the regulation of protein and energy metabolism in skeletal muscle by fine-tuning and stabilizing complex signaling systems which regulate protein synthesis and degradation.
NOS activation during muscle stretching or resisting exercise initiates proliferation of G0-satellite cells. Released NO passes through the sarcolemma, and activates hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) through the activity of matrix metalloproteinases. Activated HGF interacts with c-met receptors of satellite cells, promoting their entrance into the cell cycle. Therefore, during resistance exercises NO works as an activator and as a regulator of signaling, and as a trigger of muscle hypertrophy. The end result is a functional pump!
To summarize, Vaso6™ enhances exercise capacity and endurance. It also increases vasodilation and blood flow which ultimately improves the shuttling of glucose, insulin and other nutrients to your muscles. The end result is the activation of muscle protein synthesis. In short, better performance and bigger muscles.
Urolithin B
Urolithin B is one of four metabolites of ellagic acid or ellagitannins. The first product of ellagic acid catabolism is urolithin D, and with the successive losses of hydroxy groups urolithins C, A, and B are formed. All mammals seem able to produce urolithins from the microflora in the gastrointestinal tract after the ingestion of some fruits. In healthy humans, urolithins A and B are most abundant. Research has shown supplementing the diet with ellagitannins mitigates muscle damage experienced during intense exercise and protects muscle against stresses induced by a high-fat diet. However, since ellagitannins are known to have low bioavailability, it is believed that ellagitannin-derived metabolites are responsible for the reported effects. Therefore, the focus of clinical research has focused on characterizing the effects of urolithins themselves.
Through that effort it was observed that myotubes in culture were bigger after incubation with Urolithin B. What this really means is that Urolithin B holds tremendous promise to increase skeletal muscle mass. Clinical research on Urolithin B in mice found that it enhanced myotubes growth and differentiation by increasing protein synthesis. It demonstrated an ability to inhibit the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP), the principal mechanism for protein catabolism. It also induced muscle hypertrophy and reduced muscle atrophy. Signalling analyses indicate a connection between the androgen receptor and the mTORC1 pathway, possibly via AMPK. Olympus Labs is extremely excited to bring this powerful compound to the market. It is the crown jewel of the formula and the ultimate catalyst in the quest RE!GN supreme!
Conclusion
EP1LOGUE my seem like a simple, three ingredient formula. But do not be deceived by fancy kitchen sink formulas with underdosed compounds, inferior extracts and worse ineffective ingredients. EP1LOGUE is the antithesis to muscle building supplements on the market. It embodies Innovation, Value and Results. A product that significantly enhances exercise performance via increased blood flow and endurance. A product that build lean skeletal muscle whilst preventing muscle breakdown. EP1LOGUE will initiate your transformation from a mere mortal to a DemiGod. However, the benefit will build over time as Vaso6™ and Urolithin B both increase protein synthesis, making you bigger and stronger.
Are you ready to Make It RE1GN? Olympus Labs continues to bring you the most innovative and effective supplements in the industry. There is no other company that can match that expertise of our R&D team. EP1LOGUE is the latest example of our unparalleled genius, but surely is not the las
References:
Barnett C et al. Food Funct., 2015,6, 824-833. DOI: 10.1039/C4FO00596A. Pharmacokinetic, partial pharmacodynamic and initial safety analysis of (−)-epicatechin in healthy volunteers.
Jimenez et al. Free Radic Biol Med. 2012 Jan 1;52(1):70-9. doi:10.1016/ j.freeradbiomed.2011.09.015. Epub 2011 Sep 22. Epicatechin lowers blood pressure, restores endothelial function, and decreases oxidative stress and endothelin-1 and NADPH oxidase activity in DOCA-salt hypertension.
Ciaraldi, T et al. J Nutr Biochem. Effects of (−)-epicatechin on molecular modulators of skeletal muscle growth and differentiation
Dept of Pharmacology. Fitzpatrick D et al. Isolation and Characterization of Endothelium-Dependent Vasorelaxing Compounds from Grape Seeds. 2000.
Dept of Pharmacology. Fitzpatrick D et al. Vasodilating Procyanidins Derived from Grape Seeds. 2002.
Lee S-J et al. PLoS ONE 12(4): e0175271. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. Pone.0175271. 2017. Epicatechin elicits MyoD- dependent myoblast differentiation and myogenic conversion of fibroblasts.
Rodriguez, J et al. 2017 - Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle - Wiley. Urolithin B, a newly identified regulator of skeletal muscle mass