AGTC Genomics, IMU University and MOSTA Partner to Conduct One of the Largest Clinical Studies on Tocotrienols for Healthy Ageing

Tripartite MoU signed at OFIC 2026 connects genomics, clinical research and palm oil expertise to advance healthy ageing research and develop higher-value applications for Malaysia’s palm oil industry.

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 Oct 2026 — AGTC Genomics has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IMU University and the Malaysian Oil Scientists’ and Technologists’ Association (MOSTA) to advance palm oil research and development, with a major focus on investigating the geroprotective potential of palm-derived tocotrienols.

The tripartite signing took place during the Oils and Fats International Congress 2026 (OFIC 2026), held on 13–14 October at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, and was witnessed by YB Datuk Seri Dr. Noraini Ahmad, Minister of Plantation and Commodities. The collaboration marks an important step towards connecting Malaysia’s established palm oil industry with advances in genomics, nutrition and healthy ageing research.

Advancing a Major Clinical Study on Tocotrienols and Healthy Ageing

A central initiative under the partnership is a planned clinical study investigating whether tocotrienol supplementation can influence biological processes associated with ageing and support healthier ageing. Envisaged as one of the largest clinical studies specifically examining tocotrienol’s geroprotective potential, the research aims to strengthen the human evidence behind this valuable palm-derived compound.

An established body of laboratory and human research has investigated tocotrienols in relation to oxidative stress, DNA damage, lipid metabolism and brain health. Previous randomised studies have reported improvements in selected measures of DNA damage and oxidative status, while a separate clinical trial investigated their potential to slow the progression of brain white matter lesions.

These findings provide a foundation for further research, although they do not establish that tocotrienols reverse ageing or extend human lifespan.

The new collaboration seeks to build on this foundation by examining tocotrienol’s geroprotective potential—its possible ability to protect against biological damage associated with ageing and help preserve health and function. Generating stronger clinical evidence will be essential to understanding whether promising cellular effects translate into meaningful benefits for people.

Unlocking Higher-Value Opportunities for Malaysia’s Palm Oil Industry

Palm oil remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s economy, supporting export earnings, employment, rural livelihoods and a broad network of downstream industries. According to the Malaysian Palm Oil Board, exports of palm oil and related products generated RM112.43 billion in 2025.

Developing higher-value applications for palm-derived bioactive compounds offers an opportunity to diversify this economic contribution and strengthen Malaysia’s competitiveness in research-led products.

Tocotrienols, members of the vitamin E family naturally present in palm oil, are a particular focus of this opportunity. Their potential applications in nutrition and healthy ageing could help Malaysia capture greater value through scientific discovery, product development and the generation of credible clinical evidence.

The collaboration supports this ambition by connecting a locally available agricultural resource with research that could inform future development of scientifically substantiated nutritional products.

Combining Genomics, Academic Research and Industry Expertise

The MoU brings together complementary expertise: AGTC Genomics’ capabilities in genomic analysis and molecular research, IMU University’s academic and health sciences research strengths, and MOSTA’s expertise and professional networks across oils and fats science and technology.

Together, these capabilities create a platform for translating palm oil research into applications with potential benefits for both public health and industry. The partnership also creates opportunities for knowledge exchange, research training and closer engagement between scientists and industry stakeholders.

From Whole-Genome Sequencing, Transcriptomics to Soil Microbiome Research

The partnership builds on AGTC Genomics’ broader involvement in oil palm research with multiple collaborators, spanning whole-genome sequencing and soil microbiome studies to support improvements in crop quality and yield.

Whole-genome sequencing can help researchers investigate genetic variation associated with desirable crop characteristics, while soil microbiome studies can provide insights into microbial communities involved in nutrient cycling, soil health and plant–microbe interactions. These approaches can inform efforts to improve plantation productivity and support more sustainable crop management.

By connecting research on the crop, its growing environment and its high-value components, the collaboration establishes a broader pathway from agricultural innovation to human health research.

Strengthening Malaysia’s Position in Science-Driven Palm Oil Innovation

For Malaysia, the significance of the MoU extends beyond a single study. It represents a commitment to strengthening the scientific capabilities needed to advance the palm oil value chain, develop locally generated intellectual property and pursue new opportunities in nutrition and healthy ageing.

The partnership connects improvements in agricultural productivity with efforts to demonstrate the value of palm-derived compounds through rigorous clinical research. This approach could support a more diversified and competitive industry while strengthening Malaysia’s contribution to international healthy ageing research.

Through this partnership, AGTC Genomics, IMU University and MOSTA aim to advance a shared ambition: to translate Malaysia’s palm oil strengths into higher-value innovations supported by rigorous science.

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About AGTC Genomics

AGTC Genomics is a Malaysian genomics and precision medicine company providing advanced sequencing, molecular analysis and bioinformatics solutions. Alongside its healthcare services, the company collaborates with academic and industry partners on research spanning human health, agriculture and microbial genomics.