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Healthy aging begins at the cellular level.

In the quest for longevity and enhanced quality of life, the Bluezones® Research Group Switzerland has emerged as a leading authority in understanding the secrets behind the world's longest-lived populations. By investigating in the so-called Bluezones - the group aims to uncover the botanical treasures that contribute to their exceptional health and longevity.

About us

The Bluezones® Research Group Switzerland

The Bluezones® Research Group Switzerland is an independent, interdisciplinary research collective based in Switzerland, specializing in the epigenetic mechanisms of healthy aging. For over 20 years, we have studied how plant-based micronutrients, and their miRNA formation, can modulate biological aging.  

A New Era of Longevity – The work of the Bluezones® Research Group Switzerland represents a transformative approach to understanding aging. By merging traditional knowledge with cutting-edge epigenetic research, we are paving the way for innovative health solutions that could revolutionize how we think about aging and wellness. Through collaborations with esteemed universities and scientific hubs worldwide, we focus on identifying potential health issues long before they manifest, employing state-of-the-art epigenetic analysis and groundbreaking therapy concepts, designed to cover all 12 hallmarks of aging. 

We stand at the forefront of a fascinating intersection between nutrition, epigenetics, and aging. By investigating the unique plant-based diets of the world’s longest-lived populations and analyzing the epigenetic markers associated with longevity, we are uncovering profound insights that could redefine our understanding of aging. As we work to cultivate these plants in Blue Zones and develop tailored interventions, we are not just extending life; we are enhancing the very essence of living well. This is longevity at an entirely new level, promising a future where age is just a number, and vitality knows no bounds. 

Dedicated to advancing genetics and epigenetics for healthy longevity
Pursuing phytonutrients with exclusively positive effects on human biology
Setting the highest safety and purity standards for plant-based therapies

The Bluezones® Research Group Switzerland draws its name from the so-called Bluezones. The name was created by Professor Gianni Pes and stands for a geographic area characterized by extreme longevity—regions such as Yuzurihara (Japan), Uruguay (all regions) the Hunza Vally (Himalaya), Pema Gatshel (Bhutan), Acciaroli (Naples) or Sardinia. In contrast to the popular science approach that emphasizes sociocultural lifestyle factors, our research delves deeper: we focus on the molecular and epigenetic processes that make longevity biologically possible.

 

The Group investigates which bioactive plant compounds present in these diets have cellular impact—and how they influence gene expression, cellular protection, and age-related biological processes.

 

The Bluezones 5 stands for the Japanese „Godai“ (五大), These Five Great Elements, are Earth (Chi), Water (Sui), Fire (Ka), Wind (Fu), and Void (Ku). These elements are the foundation of all things, including physical and mental well-being, and when in balance, they contribute to overall happiness and health. The number five in our logo is not a reference to the number of global Blue Zones, but a symbol of balance and vitality. It reflects our scientific alignment with the five foundational elements of the Godai philosophy—Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, and Void—which represent the essential forces of nature and the human body. Our goal is to understand how these principles translate into measurable biological processes, guiding our pursuit of health, resilience, and longevity at the cellular level.

 

We conduct research across the globe with the aim of identifying the most effective phytoceuticals worldwide.

Scientists

Specialized. Collaborative. Project-specific. 

Our researchers are united by a clear scientific objective: creating new genetic and epigenetic analytical tools to detect health problems at an early stage using state-of-the-art technology. Their work focuses on exploring special plant species that show promising results in slowing down the aging process in humans and offer protective effects against age-related diseases. In addition, we aim to understand why plants grown in Bluezones regions – areas known for long, healthy lives – provide greater health benefits compared to regular plants, and to uncover the reasons behind this difference.

Projects

Collaborative. Preventive. Ahead of its time.

The Bluezones® Research Group Switzerland unites scientists dedicated to decoding the biology of aging. In partnership with leading universities and research centers, we develop forward-thinking interventions that target all 12 hallmarks of aging—combining advanced epigenetic diagnostics with nature-based longevity strategies.

Our goal is to identify scientifically validated strategies for promoting positive gene expression and preventing chronic diseases through nutrition and lifestyle interventions.

Patents

Globally protected. Scientifically grounded. Openly accessible.

Each of our patents is filed through WIPO, ensuring international recognition and transparency.

We list the main global application; all related patent filings can be explored via the linked PATENTSCOPE database—a free, public platform for searching official patent documents from over 60 national and regional offices. 

USE OF NANODISPERSIONS IN PHARMACEUTICAL END FORMULATIONS

The patent US20060292191 describes a novel nanodispersion system used in pharmaceutical end formulations to improve the delivery and bioavailability of active ingredients. This system combines membrane-forming molecules, coemulsifiers, and lipophilic components into a prephase that spontaneously forms uniform nanoparticles (<50 nm) when added to water - without the need for high shear or homogenization. This allows for highly stable, homogeneous formulations suitable for a wide range of therapeutic applications, offering enhanced efficacy, simplified manufacturing, and improved patient outcomes.
Researcher: Andreas Supersaxo, Hans Georg Weder, Dietmar Hüglin, Joachim Friedrich Röding
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Encapsulation Colloid droplets. METHOD FOR APPLYING AN ACTIVE INGREDIENT TO A SUBSTRATE, COMPOSITIONS FOR SAID METHOD, CONTAINER CONTAINING A COMPOSITION AND USE OF SAID COMPOSITIONS

The patent WO2002089769 describes a novel method for topical drug delivery using microemulsions or liposomal suspensions that are self-foaming upon application to a substrate, such as skin. The foaming process creates a thin, uniform film that allows for sustained release, enhanced bioavailability, improved skin hydration, and accurate dosing—making it particularly beneficial for sensitive applications like wound healing or cosmetic treatments.
Researcher: Andreas Supersaxo, Marc Antoine Weder, Hans Georg Weder
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TEST STRIP FOR THE DETECTION OF EQUOL

The patent WO2011107238 describes a simple, rapid, and instrument-free test strip that detects the presence of equol in urine or other body fluids through a visible color change. Its core innovation lies in enabling consumers or professionals to identify equol producers without laboratory equipment, using a safe and easy-to-use diagnostic tool.
Researcher:
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MICROEMULSION-PRECONCENTRATE, MICROEMULSION AND USE THEREOF

The patent US08158134 describes a novel microemulsion preconcentrate formulation for poorly water-soluble active ingredients such as cyclosporins. By combining medium-chain triglycerides with omega-6 and/or omega-9 fatty acids and a polyoxyethylene-type surfactant, the formulation spontaneously forms a transparent, stable microemulsion upon contact with water - without the need for heat or high shear force. This enables precise, efficient drug delivery while improving bioavailability and patient safety.
Researcher: Andreas Supersaxo, Marc Antoine Weder, Hans Georg Weder
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COMPOSITION FOR COVERING AND PROTECTING SCARS

The patent US20180104379 discloses a novel, non-silicone, film-forming scar treatment composition that combines high levels of organic UV filters with specific polymers to create a transparent, elastic coating that protects scars from UV radiation, water, and abrasion. This fast-drying liquid forms a solid, long-lasting barrier on the skin, improving both scar healing and cosmetic appearance without impairing daily activities.
Researcher: Andreas Supersaxo
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TRANSFER TECHNOLOGY: PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS CONTAINING ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVE INGREDIENTS AND THE USE OF SAID FORMULATIONS

The patent WO2002083099 describes pharmaceutical formulations based on microemulsion preconcentrates that significantly improve the absorption and onset of action of poorly water-soluble NSAIDs like ibuprofen. The innovation lies in a specific combination of triglycerides, omega fatty acids, and surfactants that spontaneously form microemulsions in the gastrointestinal tract—offering rapid, convenient, and taste-neutral administration without the need for water-soluble additives.
Researcher: Hans-Georg WEDER
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COMPOSITION FOR WEIGHT REDUCTION COMPRISING A BEVERAGE AND BEADS

The patent US20180146692 relates to a composition for oral administration comprising a beverage and beads distributed in the beverage. The invention also relates to devices for preparing the composition and uses for reducing weight of an individual.
Researcher: Johannes Huber
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CONTAINER LID FOR A CONTAINER AND METHOD AND DEVICE FOR FILLING A CONTAINER

The patent EP4104934 describes a container lid with an integrated manual dosing and mixing mechanism that dispenses a precise amount of product while simultaneously activating a mixing element inside the container. This ensures that multi-component formulations are freshly mixed just before use, enhancing product stability and effectiveness.
Researcher: Tom Philipps
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METHODS FOR DETERMINING CANCER

The patent WO2022152784 relates to a method for determining which type of cancer an individual has or if the individual has cancer or not, wherein single nucleotide variants, microRNA and DNA methylation are used as markers. The invention also relates to uses, methods for treating cancer and methods for providing information.
Researcher: Alexander Huber, Berit Hippe, Clemens Hietzinger, Olivier Switzeny
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Producing Polyphenol Equol:,SYNTHESIS OF ISOFLAVANES AND INTERMEDIATES THEREOF.

The patent WO2016038061 describes a novel method for synthesizing isoflavanes using a specific set of chemical reactions that enhance efficiency and yield. Its key innovation lies in enabling the scalable and cost-effective production of bioactive isoflavanes, which are valuable for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.
Researcher: Nikolai Beliaev, Yuri Shafran
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Publications

Peer-reviewed. Evidence-based. Open for scrutiny.

Transparency and replicability are core principles of our work—every study is conducted according to internationally recognized research protocols and ethical guidelines. Our publication strategy focuses on interdisciplinary relevance and high-impact dissemination across the fields of: 

Aging biology & cellular protection
Epigenetics & gene regulation
Nutritional medicine & functional food 
Plant-based bioactives & phytochemistry 

Financing

Independent by principle. Transparent by design.

The Bluezones® Research Group Switzerland does not accept funding from commercial entities, industry partners, or product manufacturers. Our commitment is exclusively to science — free from external influence, commercial interest, or hidden agendas.

This financial independence is a conscious and foundational choice. It ensures that our research remains unbiased, methodologically rigorous, and fully aligned with our scientific and ethical standards. Our only obligation is to the pursuit of knowledge — and to the long-term health of society. 

In line with this principle, the Bluezones® Research Group Switzerland provides financial support exclusively to projects led or co-led by registered members of the Research Group. Funding is not available to external individuals or institutions. This ensures that every supported initiative is grounded in our shared values, scientific rigor, and long-term commitment to advancing healthspan through uncompromised research.