BANGKOK, February 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Chulalongkorn University and Mahidol University entered into historic technology transfer collaboration to commercialize AnthoRice™ Complexa hair root care innovation developed in Thailand and derived from organic Riceberry rice, marking a significant milestone in translating academic research into real-world health and wellness applications.
Developed by researchers from Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesChulalongkorn University, AnthoRice™ Complex combines organic Riceberry rice extracts with StemActive® technology. The research has been validated in international academic journals and is now moving towards clinical trials at Siriraj Hospital in early 2026, positioning the product for a possible upgrade from cosmetics to cosmeceuticals.
University leaders emphasized that the partnership reflects a shared vision of universities as drivers of societal impact. The signing ceremony formalized a technology transfer agreement between Chula PharTech Co., Ltd. and Thaithonburi Corporation Co., Ltd., in the presence of senior leaders from the Faculties of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicine of the two institutions. The collaboration integrates expertise from research, medicine and industry to meet international standards for effectiveness, safety and sustainability.
Scientific presentations traced the journey of the AnthoRice™ complex from cellular research to clinical application, highlighting mechanisms such as activation of autophagy, reduction of oxidative stress and stimulation of stem cells in dermal papilla cells, essential for healthy hair follicles. Researchers explained that Riceberry extracts, rich in anthocyanins and antioxidants, stimulate melanin production through two biological pathways, offering the potential to combat hair loss and premature aging at the cellular root level rather than superficial symptoms.
The project also emphasizes the creation of social and economic value. Organic Riceberry rice comes from farming communities in Phetchabun and Phichit provinces, areas affected by climate volatility and price fluctuations. By adding value through standardized, GMP-certified extraction and downstream manufacturing, the initiative aims to increase farmers’ income while enhancing the credibility of Thai medicinal plant and rice research.
AnthoRice™ Complex represents the first fully integrated national collaboration between Thailand’s two leading universities to develop rice-based cosmeceutical products from farm to clinic. The end-to-end model – spanning agriculture, laboratory sciences, clinical trials and commercialization – aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals and positions Thai innovation for global impact, with 24-week clinical trials designed to assess hair density, color changes, scalp health and overall safety.
Read the full article on https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/285760/
Media Contact:
Chula Communications Center
E-mail: Pataraporn.r@chula.ac.th
View original content to download multimedia:^ https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/chulalongkorn-university-unveils-anthorice-complex-a-breakthrough-in-hair-root-science-302689375.html
SOURCE Chulalongkorn University Communication Center
