BIOTEC – Shiseido Joint Research Project on Searching for Active Ingredients for Cosmetic Purposes
The long-term goal of this joint research is to conduct an in-depth study of plant extracts that can potentially be used as cosmetic ingredients, as well as research into product development. Work commenced in December 2004, with a design phase to determine the scope of study in evaluating extracts from plants. The research project activities consisted of literature reviews on plant information, then selection of plants to perform screening and tests for safety, efficacy and formulation are employed in order to develop a product. A parallel study is being conducted at BIOTEC to improve plant yields and increase the active ingredient in plants, employing biotechnology.

In June 2008, BIOTEC-NSTDA and Shiseido jointly applied for a patent in Japan and Thailand on potential activities of certain plant extracts. 

Conformation to Thai and International Laws and Practices The joint research collaboration, started in December 2004, was conducted in full compliance with the CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity) and Thailand’s Plant Varieties Protection Act B.E. 2542. Information including the plant list and research plan was submitted to the Department of Agriculture and permissions were granted.  Prior to the patent application, BIOTEC and Shiseido have expressed their intention to the Department of Agriculture to enter into a benefit-sharing agreement with the Royal Thai Government as soon as the Ministerial Regulation stipulating the protocol comes into effect. Currently, the Ministerial Regulation outlining the protocol for the benefit-sharing is in the process of drafting.

Shiseido Southeast Asian Research Center
In October 2006, Shiseido opened its Southeast Asian Research Center located in the incubation unit at the Thailand Science Park, where BIOTEC Headquarters and research units are located. The establishment of the Shiseido Southeast Asian Research Center helps fostering joint research projects between Shiseido and BIOTEC. Active collaboration between BIOTEC and Shiseido includes research on microbial diversity on facial skin. Both parties are in the process of developing more projects that can make best use of the expertise of both sides.

	Joint Patent for Research Collaboration between BIOTEC/NSTDA and SHISEIDO BIOTEC announces collaborative research with Shiseido