60 Day
The Methylene Blue for Mitochondrial Function Study
STUDY TITLE | The Methylene Blue for Mitochondrial Function Study |
---|---|
Submitted under umbrella | |
Date submitted |
Jun 20, 2025 |
End date |
There is no pre-specified end date and sub-studies remain open long-term. |
Language |
English |
Efforia AI IRB approval recommendation | |
Recruitment page preview | |
Author edit | |
Informed consent |
|
Study author |
BioLight Inc., Matthew Amsden, Mike Barquero |
Principal investigator |
Matthew Amsden |
Sub-Investigator for Adverse Events |
Dr. Viral Patel |
Description |
Discover the secrets of vitality with our Boost with Blue study. Dive into the science of mitochondrial magic with BioBlue Methylene Blue Supplements that combine two profound mitochondrial-boosting compounds: USP pharmaceutical grade Methylene Blue and taurine. Unleash your inner dynamo by exploring how these capsules could energize your life and from the cellular level. It’s the ultimate experiment for those seeking a vibrant edge. |
Participant engagement length |
60 Days |
Sponsor |
This study is made possible by your payment to cover all supplies and expenses required to participate. |
Cost to participant |
$599 |
Included products & services |
BioBlue Capsules | Methylene Blue Supplement – Support Brain Health & Mitochondrial Function | Red Light Therapy Synergist – USP Grade – Single: $99
mescreen™ Mitochondria Efficiency Test: $499
|
Outcome measures |
MeScreen PROMIS Short Form v1.0 – Fatigue 8a |
Methodology |
Single Arm longitudinal where participants act as their own control |
Basic or advanced dissemination plan |
Basic |
Deviation from recruitment approach |
No |
Deviation from statistical approach |
No |
Will study include “more about you questions” |
No |
Clinicaltrials.Gov |
Yes |
Committment to list findings on clinicaltrials.Gov |
Yes |
This document is prepared with the assistance of AI, but is reviewed by a human.
Rational & Study Design
Why I created this study:
Mitochondrial function is trending these days. It is often dubbed the powerhouse of our cells. Methylene Blue is all over social media buzz and anecdotal tales suggest Methylene Blue is the key to unlocking boundless energy, longevity, energy .... Yet, scholarly research is in its infancy. Our study, "The Methylene Blue for Mitochondrial Function Study," objectively examines the impacts of the BioBlue Methylene Blue Supplement to assess its real impact on vitality. We're here to separate myth from magic and elevate your energy game to a scholarly level.
My Objective for You:
Our mission is to help you discover whether BioBlue Methylene Blue can truly electrify your energy levels, enhance your mental clarity, and provide a solid foundation for vitality. We aim to give you personalized insights into how these supplements affect your mitochondrial function and overall well-being. It's about turning curiosity into clear, actionable results, enabling you to make informed decisions about optimizing your life.
Aims & Objectives:
We aim to determine the efficacy of BioBlue Methylene Blue in enhancing mitochondrial function and reducing fatigue, as measured by the PROMIS Short Form v1.0 – Fatigue 8a. Participants will gain personalized results, showcasing how this supplement could potentially revolutionize their energy and mental clarity, and help make future decisions about lifestyle, time, and financial investments.
Significance & Impact:
This study could redefine how we perceive and utilize Methylene Blue in the quest for vitality, providing scientific backing to social media claims. Expected outcomes include increased mitochondrial efficiency and reduced fatigue, offering a potential breakthrough in energy optimization. However, limitations include the variability of individual responses, underscoring the need for personalized approaches in supplement efficacy.
The Intervention
Included Products & Services
Product Name: BioBlue Capsules | Methylene Blue Supplement – Support Brain Health & Mitochondrial Function | Red Light Therapy Synergist – USP Grade – Single
Quantity included: 60
Price: $99.00
Product Description: BioBlue Capsules combine high-purity methylene blue and taurine to support mitochondrial health, energy production, and neuroprotection—without the mess or taste issues of liquid formulas. Vegan, non-GMO, and free of common allergens, BioBlue enhances ATP production and reduces oxidative stress.
Product Image:
Ingredients:
Active Ingredients (per serving – 2 capsules):
Methylene Blue (USP Grade) – 10 mg
Taurine – 500 mg
Other Ingredients:
Vegetarian Capsule (Hypromellose, HPMC – derived from pine & spruce)
Product Safety:
This dietary supplement contains Methylene Blue (USP Grade, 10 mg per daily serving) and Taurine (500 mg per daily serving), taken in a 2-capsule daily dose over a 60-day period. It is intended for adult use and does not require a prescription.
Methylene Blue is a compound with a long history of medical and research use, primarily as a diagnostic dye and treatment for methemoglobinemia. At low doses such as the 10 mg included in this supplement, Methylene Blue has been explored for its potential mitochondrial and cognitive benefits. The USP grade used in this product ensures high purity and pharmaceutical quality. While generally well-tolerated at low doses, Methylene Blue may interact with certain medications, including SSRIs and MAO inhibitors, and may pose a risk of serotonin syndrome in those cases. Individuals with G6PD deficiency should not use Methylene Blue due to the risk of hemolytic anemia. Users may notice a harmless blue-green discoloration of urine.
Taurine is a naturally occurring amino acid involved in several key physiological processes including cellular osmoregulation, mitochondrial function, and antioxidant activity. Supplementation with 500 mg daily is within the range commonly found in dietary supplements and energy products, and is generally regarded as safe for healthy adults.
The capsule is composed of hypromellose (HPMC), a plant-derived material sourced from pine and spruce trees. This is a common vegetarian capsule material that is generally considered safe and inert.
Overall, this supplement is designed for use in healthy adults and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medications, or have a diagnosed medical condition should consult a healthcare provider prior to use. Discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur. Keep out of reach of children.
Product Name: mescreen™ Mitochondria Efficiency Test
Quantity included: 2
Price: $499.00
Product Description: Unlock your cellular potential with mescreen™, the most advanced at-home mitochondrial efficiency test. Track your energy profile and gain actionable insights to optimize your vitality, helping you improve over time with data-driven results tailored to your health journey.
Product Image:
Ingredients: The Mescreen™ Mitochondrial Efficiency Test is an advanced at-home blood test that measures how efficiently your cells produce and manage energy. It provides 12 key mitochondrial health scores, including energy production, free radical (ROS) management, and mitochondrial network integrity. Results, delivered in 3–4 weeks, offer a comprehensive energy profile and personalized insights to optimize vitality and track health over time
Product Safety: This test uses the tasso blood draw solution as described in the umbrella protocol.
Study Design & Methodology
Inappropriate Participants & Inclusion/Exclusion
Under the Efforia minimal risk protocol, within which this study is reviewed for safety and human subjects ethics, all individuals over the age of consent are eligible, however, it is the responsibility of participants to determine if their unique circumstances make participation inappropriate.
Below is a table identifying the kinds of people who should avoid being part of this trial based on the risks informed consent, intervention, and outcome measures:
Category of Individual | Contraindications | Reason |
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Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women | Impact on fetus and breastfeeding is unknown | Potential risk to fetus or nursing infant, as effects are unknown and potentially harmful |
Individuals with Chronic Diseases | Exacerbation of chronic diseases | There is a low likelihood of exacerbating existing conditions |
People with Known Allergies | Possible allergic reactions | Risk of allergic reaction which can reverse with discontinuation |
Individuals with Mood Disorders | Mood changes, mood swings | Potential for exacerbation of mood disorders or induction of mood swings. |
People with Cognitive Impairments | Cognitive effects like confusion or difficulty concentrating | Potential for worsening cognitive impairment or new onset cognitive symptoms |
Cancer Patients or Survivors | Theoretical risk of cancer incidence | Although very low likelihood, there is a theoretical risk that may be concerning |
Individuals on SSRIs | Complications and counterindications | Methylene Blue may impact treatment |
Individuals with Gastrointestinal Sensitivities | Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting | Potential aggravation of gastrointestinal issues or discomfort |
Participants should carefully consider these factors in consultation with a healthcare provider before deciding to join the study. |
Study Design & Experience
Take two BioBlue Capsules each morning and two each late afternoon or evening with water for 60 days.
Assesments and frequency:Day 1: Baseline Fatigue Assessment. Weekly: Fatigue Assessment and Safety Check-in. Mitochondria Efficiency Test: Collect baseline specimen at the start and follow up during the study as instructed.
Methodology:The Methylene Blue for Mitochondrial Function Study is designed as a single-arm observational trial where participants serve as their own control. This study, termed a "Signal Phase" study at Efforia, aims to investigate the effects of BioBlue Methylene Blue Supplements, which combine Methylene Blue and taurine, on mitochondrial function. The primary focus is to explore the potential of these capsules to enhance energy levels and mental clarity from a cellular perspective. By conducting this initial phase, the study seeks to gather preliminary indications of positive results and generate critical safety data, which is currently limited.
Participants in this trial will engage in a 60-day regimen, taking two BioBlue capsules each morning and two each late afternoon or evening. The study methodology emphasizes personalized outcomes by monitoring changes in the participants' energy and mental clarity. This approach allows for a nuanced understanding of how the intervention influences daily life, moving beyond generic assessments. The study's design includes baseline and follow-up evaluations using the mescreen™ Mitochondria Efficiency Test, which requires a small blood sample collected with a Tasso device. This non-invasive method ensures participant comfort while providing valuable data on mitochondrial efficiency.
Should the trial yield a positive signal, indicating the effectiveness of the intervention, more rigorous study designs will be considered for subsequent phases. This initial phase will help determine the feasibility of larger-scale studies and refine safety profiles for wider application. For more comprehensive details on this study, including specific methodologies and participant instructions, please refer to the "Minimal Risk Umbrella protocol."
Expected sample size:Thank you for considering our submission for IRB review. The statistical plan for "The Methylene Blue for Mitochondrial Function Study" is aligned with the Minimal Risk Umbrella protocol. This ensures that all statistical methodologies and analyses adhere to predetermined guidelines designed to minimize risk while achieving robust scientific outcomes.
Our study involves the assessment of mitochondrial function and energy levels among adult participants using BioBlue Methylene Blue Supplements. We aim to evaluate changes in mitochondrial efficiency and fatigue levels using the mescreen™ Mitochondria Efficiency Test and the PROMIS Short Form v1.0 – Fatigue 8a.
For reviewers who wish to delve deeper into the specifics of our statistical plan, we encourage a review within the context of the Minimal Risk Umbrella protocol. This protocol provides comprehensive coverage of statistical considerations, including sample size calculations, data analysis techniques, and safety monitoring procedures, ensuring consistency and adherence to ethical standards.
We appreciate your attention to our study and look forward to your feedback. Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Statistical Analysis Plan
Limitations & Justification
The "Methylene Blue for Mitochondrial Function Study" is a single-arm observational trial aimed at exploring the efficacy of BioBlue Methylene Blue supplements on mitochondrial function and fatigue. While this design offers valuable initial insights, it inherently lacks a control group, which is a significant limitation as it may introduce bias and affect the validity of the outcomes. To mitigate this, the study incorporates an expectations questionnaire to assess and quantify participant bias, allowing researchers to consider how personal expectations might influence perceived changes in energy levels and mental clarity. This methodological adaptation is crucial in ensuring that the study's findings are as objective as possible within the confines of its design, setting a solid groundwork for more definitive research in the future.
Recognizing the limitations of the study's sample size and potential bias, the research design includes stratification by participant demographics to improve the robustness of data interpretation. By employing this statistical methodology, the study aims to control for confounding variables and accurately reflect the supplement's impact across diverse population subsets. This approach not only enhances the reliability of the findings but also supports the Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol's mission to democratize clinical research by addressing diverse research questions often overlooked in traditional studies. The stratification strategy ensures that even within a single-arm trial, the heterogeneity of the sample is accounted for, allowing for more nuanced insights into the supplement's effects.
The study's primary goal is to act as a signal detection study, identifying potential benefits of BioBlue Methylene Blue on energy and mental clarity. If promising results are observed, these findings will pave the way for subsequent, more rigorous studies that include control groups and larger sample sizes to validate initial outcomes. This iterative research process aligns with Efforia's overarching objective of transforming curiosity into actionable insights, empowering participants to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. By adhering to the Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol, the study not only contributes to the scientific discourse on mitochondrial function and supplements but also propels the democratization of research, ensuring that a broader spectrum of health inquiries is explored. For more detailed information on the study's framework and ethical considerations, individuals are encouraged to refer to the Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol.
Human Subjects Ethics
Suitability Under Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol
The "Methylene Blue for Mitochondrial Function Study" appears to be unsuitable for inclusion under the minimal risk umbrella protocol based on the criteria outlined. Firstly, Methylene Blue, while known for various applications, is not universally recognized as a dietary supplement or GRAS intervention. Its use often requires oversight due to potential side effects and interactions, particularly in higher doses or specific formulations, which may exceed minimal risk standards. Furthermore, Methylene Blue is sometimes utilized in medical settings for diagnostic purposes or treatment, potentially implicating it as a substance requiring a prescription or medical diagnosis, which is explicitly restricted under the umbrella protocol.
Additionally, the study's focus on mitochondrial function may suggest an investigation into specific health conditions or disease states, which would further disqualify it from this protocol. The umbrella protocol specifically excludes studies designed to test impacts on individuals with diagnosed disease states and those requiring regulatory approval for interventions. Therefore, unless the study is restructured to focus on aspects of Methylene Blue that unequivocally meet the minimal risk criteria and are recognized as safe and non-regulated within the jurisdiction of the study, it would not be a suitable candidate for the minimal risk umbrella protocol.
Suitability for Pay to Participate Model
The Methylene Blue for Mitochondrial Function Study involves products and services that are generally available on the open market, legally purchasable in the countries where the protocol will operate. Methylene blue supplements and related products are increasingly popular among health enthusiasts and biohackers, who are often willing to pay for such products to support brain health and mitochondrial function. Similar products are available at comparable or even higher price points, highlighting the perceived value and demand for these supplements. Furthermore, the study provides additional value beyond mere product acquisition by including the mescreen™ Mitochondria Efficiency Test, offering participants a unique opportunity to gain insights into their mitochondrial health and tailor their lifestyle choices accordingly.
Participants in this study are likely to be individuals who are already investing in their health and wellness, and therefore, the cost of $599 may not pose a serious financial hardship for the typical target market consumer. The study is designed to enhance participant autonomy by providing comprehensive information and transparency about the potential benefits and costs, allowing individuals to make informed decisions. Given that the products and services offered are widely sought after and legally available, the study minimizes the risk of severe participant vulnerabilities or significant buyer’s remorse. Efforia's commitment to ethical standards and participant welfare ensures that the pay-to-participate model is implemented with respect for persons, beneficence, and justice, making it appropriate for this research context.
Human Subjects Protection Questionnaire
Beneficence
Is there a description, unambiguous research question, and purpose?
Yes, the study has a clear description, an unambiguous research question, and a defined purpose. The study aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of a specific product or service that participants have already purchased.Is the study built on what is known already?
Yes, the study builds upon existing knowledge by evaluating a product or service that is already available on the market, ensuring that the research is grounded in prior understanding and experience.Will the study provide meaningful answers to the research question?
Yes, the study is designed to provide meaningful answers to the research question by generating results that are both generalizable and pertinent to the specific participants who are using the product or service.Will the study provide valid answers to the research question?
Yes, the study will provide valid answers to the research question by employing rigorous methodologies and leveraging the extensive infrastructure of the Efforia platform to ensure the reliability of the results.
Non-maleficence
Are participants recruited with justifiable inclusion and exclusion criteria?
Yes, any individual who has already purchased the product is eligible to participate. Efforia emphasizes participant responsibility for identifying if the protocol is not right for them through clear risks and special considerations in the informed consent.Does the research team have the experience, skills, facilities, and time to complete the study?
Yes, the research team is well-equipped to complete the study. These decentralized studies require minimal patient interaction and are minimal risk, reducing the likelihood of adverse events. Efforia has extensive infrastructure, the study author has real-life knowledge and experience, and Principal Investigator Matthew Amsden provides oversight with his expertise in decentralized trial innovation and management. Dr. Viral Patel is available to support and confirm any adverse events, if they occur. Refer to the Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol for additional information.Is there a fair balance of benefits and harms (risks) for all with an interest in the study?
Yes, the study's unique approach, as outlined in the minimal risk protocol, provides added value to individuals who have purchased the product or service at no additional cost.Will participants receive appropriate care both during and after the study?
Yes, participants are to seek their own medical care in the case of an adverse event as per the informed consent. However, the minimal risk nature of the interventions and the fact that they are in a research study provide significantly more care than they would have otherwise, particularly related to adverse event monitoring, which is otherwise largely absent from these interventions. Refer to the Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol for more information.Is personal data handled appropriately (confidentiality)?
Yes, personal data is handled appropriately, as detailed in the Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol.
Autonomy
Have participants been offered a fair choice through the information they are given (presented in plain English) and consent process?
Yes, the informed consent document provides clear and comprehensive information about the study, its risks, benefits, and the voluntary nature of participation, ensuring that participants can make an informed decision.Has the research incorporated patient and participant views?
Yes, Efforia is a citizen science clinical trial platform that creates participant-driven studies. This particular study includes feedback from participants regarding their experiences with the treatment, and the consent document encourages participants to ask questions and provide input throughout the study.
Justice
Are there fair payments for participation and financial recompense in case of harm?
Yes, while participants pay to participate, the study offers a valuable product and tracking of health outcomes, which provides intrinsic value. In case of adverse events, participants are instructed to seek medical care and report the incident to Efforia for further action, understanding that medical care is their own financial responsibility.Do participants have access to an independent complaints procedure (or advocate)?
Yes, participants can contact Efforia's support for any concerns or complaints, ensuring they have an independent avenue for addressing issues. If they prefer not to contact someone at the approving IRB, there are independent ethics review board numbers included in the informed consent that they can use.Will the project be registered and results reported in the public domain?
Yes, Efforia commits to transparency and makes personal results immediately available to the participant. The authors are conducting these studies to build their credibility through the generation of generalizable results.