C60

• Potent antioxidant activity
• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Cellular protection
• Mitochondrial support

• Neuroprotective properties
• Joint and muscle pain relief
• Skin health improvement
• Radiation protection
• Heavy metal detoxification

Carbon 60 (C60) is a unique molecule composed of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a spherical structure resembling a soccer ball, with 20 hexagons and 12 pentagons. This distinctive arrangement, known as a truncated icosahedron, gives C60 remarkable stability and reactivity properties that underlie its biological effects. The primary mechanisms through which C60 exerts its effects include: 1) Potent antioxidant activity: C60 functions as a ‘free radical sponge’ with an exceptional capacity to neutralize multiple reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Unlike conventional antioxidants that become depleted after neutralizing a single free radical, C60 can accept multiple electrons, allowing it to neutralize numerous free radicals before becoming saturated.

This is due to its unique electron-accepting capacity and conjugated double bond structure. C60 can effectively scavenge superoxide, hydroxyl, and peroxyl radicals, as well as singlet oxygen. 2) Mitochondrial protection: C60 has been shown to localize in mitochondrial membranes, where it can protect these critical cellular organelles from oxidative damage. By preserving mitochondrial function, C60 may help maintain cellular energy production and prevent the cascade of events that lead to cellular senescence or apoptosis.

3) Anti-inflammatory effects: C60 inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and reduces neutrophil activation, migration, phagocytosis, and respiratory burst. It suppresses inflammatory pathways including NF-κB signaling and inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators like nitric oxide and prostaglandins. 4) Membrane stabilization: Due to its lipophilic nature, C60 can integrate into cellular membranes, potentially reinforcing their structure and protecting them from oxidative damage. This membrane-stabilizing effect may contribute to its cellular protective properties.

5) Modulation of cellular signaling: C60 can influence various cellular signaling pathways, including those involved in stress response, cell survival, and inflammation. It has been shown to activate Nrf2, a transcription factor that regulates the expression of antioxidant proteins, and to inhibit NF-κB, a key regulator of inflammatory responses. 6) Neuroprotective effects: C60 can cross the blood-brain barrier and protect neurons from oxidative stress and excitotoxicity. It has been shown to inhibit microglial activation and neuroinflammation, processes implicated in neurodegenerative diseases.

7) Radioprotective properties: C60 can absorb and dissipate radiation energy, potentially protecting cells and tissues from radiation damage. This property has led to interest in C60 as a radioprotective agent. 8) Inhibition of viral replication: Some studies suggest that C60 and its derivatives can inhibit the replication of certain viruses by interfering with viral enzymes or blocking viral entry into cells. 9) Modulation of enzyme activity: C60 can interact with and modulate the activity of various enzymes, including those involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular metabolism.

10) Hormetic effects: At low doses, C60 may induce mild cellular stress that triggers adaptive responses, leading to increased cellular resilience and improved function—a phenomenon known as hormesis. The biological effects of C60 are influenced by its formulation and delivery method. When dissolved in oils (such as olive oil, MCT oil, or avocado oil), C60 can be delivered to cells and tissues throughout the body, where it can exert its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Water-soluble derivatives of C60, such as hydroxylated fullerenes, have different biodistribution patterns and may interact with biological systems in distinct ways.

It’s important to note that while these mechanisms have been demonstrated in various experimental models, the clinical relevance and long-term effects of C60 supplementation in humans remain areas of active research and debate.

The optimal dosage of Carbon 60 (C60) for human consumption has not been definitively established through comprehensive clinical trials. Most dosage recommendations are based on animal studies, limited human research, and anecdotal reports. The most commonly cited animal study (Baati et al., 2012) used a dose of 4 mg/kg body weight in rats, administered orally every two weeks. When extrapolated to humans using body surface area conversion, this would correspond to approximately 0.65 mg/kg or about 45 mg for a 70 kg adult.

However, direct extrapolation from animal studies to humans has significant limitations. Commercial C60 products typically contain 0.8-1.0 mg of C60 per milliliter of carrier oil. Most manufacturers recommend daily doses ranging from 1-5 ml of C60-infused oil, corresponding to approximately 0.8-5.0 mg of C60 per day. It’s important to note that the concentration of C60 in oil is limited by its solubility, which is approximately 0.8-1.0 mg/ml in most vegetable oils.

Higher concentrations claimed by some products may indicate incomplete dissolution or aggregation of C60 molecules.

Carbon 60 (C60) is a highly lipophilic molecule with virtually no solubility in water (less than 1.3 × 10^-11 mg/mL), which significantly impacts its bioavailability. When administered orally, the absorption of C60 is primarily determined by its formulation. C60 dissolved in vegetable oils (such as olive oil, MCT oil, or avocado oil) shows improved bioavailability compared to pristine C60 powder. Studies in rats have demonstrated that when C60 is dissolved in olive oil, it can be detected in the bloodstream within hours after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 4-8 hours post-ingestion.

The absolute bioavailability of C60 from oil solutions is estimated to be between 2-10%, though this varies based on the specific oil used, the quality of the C60-oil preparation, and individual physiological factors. After absorption, C60 appears to have a high volume of distribution, indicating extensive tissue distribution. C60 has been detected in various organs including the liver, spleen, kidneys, and to a lesser extent, the brain, suggesting it can cross the blood-brain barrier. The elimination half-life of C60 in rats has been reported to be approximately 24-36 hours, though some studies suggest that C60 may persist in certain tissues for much longer periods, potentially weeks to months.

Excretion occurs primarily through the biliary route into feces, with minimal urinary excretion due to C60’s high lipophilicity. It’s important to note that the bioavailability data for C60 in humans is extremely limited, and most information is extrapolated from animal studies. Individual variations in gastrointestinal function, bile production, and metabolic enzymes may significantly affect C60 absorption and distribution in humans.

Dissolution in high-quality vegetable oils (olive oil, MCT oil, avocado oil) significantly improves C60 bioavailability compared to pristine C60 powder, Extra virgin olive oil appears to provide better bioavailability than refined olive oil, possibly due to its higher content of natural antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids, MCT oil may offer faster absorption compared to longer-chain oils due to its more efficient digestion and absorption, Liposomal formulations of C60 have shown enhanced cellular uptake and improved bioavailability in preliminary studies, Micronization of C60 before dissolution in oil may improve dissolution rate and bioavailability, Hydroxylated derivatives of C60 (fullerenols) have improved water solubility, which may enhance absorption through aqueous pathways, Cyclodextrin complexation has been shown to improve the aqueous solubility and bioavailability of C60, Taking C60 oil with a meal containing fat may enhance absorption by stimulating bile release and improving lipid digestion, Sonication during the preparation of C60-oil solutions improves dissolution and may enhance bioavailability, Extended dissolution time (2-3 weeks with stirring in the dark) ensures maximum concentration of C60 in the carrier oil

For optimal absorption and effectiveness, C60 supplementation should follow specific timing considerations. Taking C60 oil with or shortly after a meal containing some fat can enhance absorption by stimulating bile release and improving lipid digestion. Morning administration (with breakfast) is often recommended to align with the body’s natural circadian rhythms and to potentially provide antioxidant support throughout the day. However, some users report that evening administration (2-3 hours before bedtime) may support better sleep quality and overnight recovery.

For athletic performance and recovery, taking C60 approximately 1-2 hours before exercise may provide antioxidant support during the workout, while post-exercise administration may support recovery processes. For those using C60 for cognitive support, morning administration is generally preferred to potentially enhance mental clarity throughout the day. Consistency in timing is important for maintaining steady levels in the body, given C60’s relatively long elimination half-life. Some protocols suggest daily administration for 2-3 weeks followed by a 1-week break, though the scientific basis for this cycling approach is limited.

For those experiencing digestive sensitivity, dividing the daily dose into two smaller doses (morning and evening) may improve tolerability. When using C60 topically for skin health or localized discomfort, application can be repeated as needed throughout the day, ideally after cleansing the area to improve absorption. It’s worth noting that these timing recommendations are based on a combination of limited research, theoretical considerations, and anecdotal reports rather than comprehensive clinical studies.

• Gastrointestinal discomfort (mild nausea, indigestion) – uncommon
• Temporary changes in stool color or consistency – uncommon
• Mild headache – rare
• Increased energy or insomnia (particularly when taken in the evening) – uncommon
• Skin sensitivity with topical application – rare
• Temporary detoxification symptoms (fatigue, headache, skin eruptions) – rare
• Photosensitivity reactions when exposed to strong UV light – rare but potentially serious

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (due to lack of safety data)
• Children and adolescents under 18 years (due to lack of safety data)
• Known hypersensitivity to C60 or carrier oils
• Active liver disease (theoretical concern due to C60’s metabolism and potential accumulation in liver tissue)
• Planned exposure to high-intensity UV radiation or phototherapy (due to potential photosensitizing effects)
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue at least 2 weeks before due to theoretical anticoagulant effects)
• Immunosuppressive therapy (theoretical concern for immune modulation)
• Concurrent use of medications with narrow therapeutic indices (due to potential drug interactions)

• Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs (theoretical risk of enhanced effect due to C60’s potential impact on platelet aggregation)
• Immunosuppressants (theoretical concern for immune modulation effects of C60)
• Photosensitizing medications (potential additive effect with C60’s photosensitizing properties)
• Medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes (theoretical concern for altered metabolism, though specific interactions are not well-documented)
• Antioxidant medications (potential additive effects)
• Liver-metabolized medications (theoretical concern for competition for metabolic pathways)
• UV-based therapies (potential for enhanced photosensitivity reactions)

No official upper limit has been established for C60 consumption by any regulatory authority. The most commonly cited animal study (Baati et al., 2012) used a dose equivalent to approximately 0.65 mg/kg in humans, administered every two weeks, without observed toxicity. Commercial C60 products typically contain 0.8-1.0 mg of C60 per milliliter of carrier oil, with recommended daily doses ranging from 1-5 ml (0.8-5.0 mg of C60). Some users have reported consuming up to 10 ml (8-10 mg of C60) daily for short periods without apparent adverse effects, but such high doses lack scientific validation for safety or efficacy.

The long-term safety of C60 supplementation in humans has not been established through rigorous clinical trials. Several in vitro and animal studies have raised concerns about potential toxicity under specific conditions, particularly when C60 is exposed to high-intensity light or UV radiation, which can generate reactive oxygen species. Additionally, some studies suggest that certain C60 preparations might accumulate in tissues over time, with unknown long-term consequences. Given these uncertainties, a conservative approach is recommended.

Most experts suggest not exceeding 5 mg of C60 daily for extended periods without medical supervision. Periodic breaks from supplementation (e.g., 1 week off after 3-4 weeks of use) may be prudent to prevent potential accumulation, though this recommendation is based on theoretical concerns rather than definitive evidence. It’s also worth noting that the quality and purity of C60 products vary significantly in the market. Contaminants, improper preparation methods, or degraded products may pose additional safety risks beyond those associated with pure C60.

Carbon 60 (C60) exists in a regulatory gray area in the United States. It has not been approved by the FDA as a drug, food additive, or dietary ingredient. C60 does not have a history of use in food prior to 1994, which means it does not qualify as a grandfathered dietary ingredient under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA). Technically, C60 would likely be considered a ‘new dietary ingredient’ under FDA regulations, requiring a New Dietary Ingredient Notification (NDIN) demonstrating safety before marketing.

However, to date, no company has successfully submitted an NDIN for C60, and the FDA has not explicitly approved C60 for use in dietary supplements. Despite this regulatory uncertainty, C60 products are currently sold in the US market, typically marketed as ‘research chemicals’ or with disclaimers stating they are ‘not for human consumption’ to circumvent dietary supplement regulations. The FDA has not taken significant enforcement action against C60 products specifically, though this could change if safety concerns emerge or if companies make explicit disease treatment claims. Companies selling C60 products must avoid making specific health claims about treating, curing, or preventing disease, as such claims would categorize the product as an unapproved drug.

The FDA has not established any official safety guidelines, recommended dosages, or quality standards specifically for C60 products.

Eu: In the European Union, C60 is not authorized as a food additive or as a novel food ingredient. Under the Novel Food Regulation (EU) 2015/2283, C60 would be considered a novel food requiring pre-market authorization, which includes a comprehensive safety assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). To date, no authorization for C60 as a novel food has been granted. Despite this regulatory status, C60 products are available in some EU countries, often marketed as ‘research chemicals’ rather than dietary supplements. The regulatory approach to C60 products varies somewhat between individual EU member states, with some taking a more stringent approach to enforcement than others. In cosmetic applications, C60 and some of its derivatives are listed in the EU Cosmetic Ingredient (CosIng) database, potentially allowing their use in cosmetic products subject to safety requirements.

Canada: Health Canada has not approved C60 as a Natural Health Product (NHP) ingredient. No C60 products have received Natural Product Numbers (NPNs), which would be required for legal sale as health supplements in Canada. Similar to the US and EU, C60 products are sometimes available in the Canadian market but typically marketed as research chemicals rather than health products. Health Canada could potentially take enforcement action against products marketed with health claims or if safety concerns emerge.

Australia: The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia has not approved C60 for use in listed or registered therapeutic goods. C60 is not included in the Australian Inventory of Chemical Substances (AICS), which would be necessary for its legal use in products regulated as therapeutic goods. Similar to other jurisdictions, C60 products may be found in the Australian market but typically with labeling that avoids therapeutic claims.

Japan: In Japan, C60 is not approved as a food additive or as an ingredient in Foods for Specified Health Uses (FOSHU) or Foods with Function Claims (FFC). The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has not established specific regulations for C60 in dietary supplements. Some C60 derivatives have been explored for cosmetic applications in Japan, with certain fullerene-based ingredients appearing in skincare products.

Russia: Russia has a unique relationship with C60 due to the presence of shungite, a natural carbon-rich rock found in the Karelia region that contains trace amounts of fullerenes including C60. Shungite has been used in traditional Russian folk medicine and is legally sold for various purposes. However, purified C60 supplements do not have explicit regulatory approval as health products.

High

C60 supplements are relatively expensive compared to most dietary supplements. The cost of C60 products varies significantly based on several factors, including C60 purity, carrier oil quality, preparation method, and brand reputation. Typical retail prices for C60 dissolved in olive oil or other carrier oils range from $1.00 to $3.00 per milliliter. Given that the commonly recommended dosage is 1-5 ml per day, this translates to a daily cost of approximately $1.00-$15.00.

For a monthly supply (30 days), consumers can expect to pay between $30 and $450, with most quality products falling in the $60-$150 range. The high cost is primarily due to the complex synthesis and purification processes required to produce high-purity C60, as well as the time-intensive dissolution process (typically 1-3 weeks of stirring) needed to properly prepare C60-oil solutions. Products using premium carrier oils (such as high-polyphenol extra virgin olive oil or organic MCT oil) tend to be at the higher end of the price spectrum. Some manufacturers offer bulk discounts, which can reduce the per-dose cost by 20-30% for larger purchases.

The value proposition of C60 supplements is difficult to assess definitively due to the limited human clinical evidence and the significant variability in product quality and user experiences. For general antioxidant support, C60 is considerably more expensive than established antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, or astaxanthin, which have more robust clinical evidence. The theoretical advantage of C60 is its ability to neutralize multiple free radicals without being consumed in the process, potentially offering more comprehensive and long-lasting antioxidant protection than conventional antioxidants. However, whether this translates to proportionally greater health benefits remains unproven.

For anti-aging purposes, the value assessment is even more challenging. The dramatic lifespan extension observed in the Baati rat study (2012) has not been conclusively replicated, and contradictory findings have emerged in subsequent research. Given the high cost and uncertain benefits, C60 represents a speculative investment in potential anti-aging effects rather than a proven value proposition. For specific applications such as joint pain relief, athletic recovery, or cognitive enhancement, some users report significant benefits that they consider worth the cost.

However, these remain anecdotal reports rather than verified outcomes. When comparing different C60 products, higher-priced options often reflect better quality control, higher purity C60, superior carrier oils, and more careful preparation methods. These factors may significantly impact efficacy and safety, potentially justifying the premium price for quality products over cheaper alternatives. The long-term value of C60 supplementation remains uncertain without data on sustained benefits or potential risks with extended use.

For cost-conscious consumers interested in C60’s potential benefits, starting with a smaller quantity of a high-quality product for a trial period (1-3 months) may be the most prudent approach to assess personal response before committing to long-term use.

C60 in its pure, solid form is extremely stable, with a shelf life of several years when stored properly in a dark, dry environment. When dissolved in carrier oils, the shelf life is more variable and depends on several factors. Properly prepared C60-oil solutions stored in dark, airtight containers at room temperature typically maintain their stability for 1-2 years. The carrier oil significantly affects shelf life – extra virgin olive oil with its natural antioxidants may provide better stability than more refined oils.

However, the oil itself can oxidize over time, particularly if exposed to heat, light, or oxygen, which may affect the overall stability of the C60-oil solution. Some manufacturers add vitamin E or other antioxidants to extend shelf life, though the impact on C60’s properties is not well-studied. Refrigeration may extend shelf life by slowing oxidation processes, but very cold temperatures can cause some precipitation of C60 from the solution, which is generally reversible upon warming and gentle agitation. Signs of degradation include a significant change in color (becoming much lighter or darker), development of a strong rancid odor (indicating oil oxidation), visible particles or sediment that doesn’t redissolve with gentle agitation, or separation of the solution into distinct layers.

Store C60-oil solutions in dark amber or opaque glass bottles to protect from light exposure, as UV and strong visible light can trigger photochemical reactions that may convert C60 from an antioxidant to a pro-oxidant. Keep containers tightly sealed to minimize oxygen exposure, which can lead to oxidation of both the C60 and the carrier oil. Store at room temperature (59-77°F or 15-25°C) in a dark location away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and temperature fluctuations. Refrigeration is acceptable and may extend shelf life, but is not necessary if the product is stored properly at room temperature.

If refrigerated, allow the product to warm to room temperature and gently agitate before use, as cold temperatures may cause some C60 to precipitate from solution. Avoid freezing, as this can alter the structure of the carrier oil and potentially affect C60 distribution in the solution. Keep away from strong electromagnetic fields and radiation sources, which could theoretically affect C60’s electronic properties. Avoid storing near strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, or bases, which could react with either the C60 or the carrier oil.

For maximum stability, minimize the headspace in the container as the product is used, or transfer to smaller containers to reduce oxygen exposure. Some users prefer to divide their supply into smaller bottles for daily use, keeping the main supply sealed until needed.

Exposure to UV light or strong visible light, which can trigger photochemical reactions converting C60 from an antioxidant to a pro-oxidant, Oxygen exposure, which can lead to oxidation of both C60 and the carrier oil, High temperatures (above 104°F/40°C), which accelerate oxidation reactions and may alter C60’s structure or distribution in the oil, Repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can affect the structure of the carrier oil and potentially the distribution of C60, Contamination with water or other substances, which may introduce reactive compounds or microorganisms, Exposure to strong oxidizing agents, which can directly react with C60, altering its structure and properties, Exposure to strong acids or bases, which can potentially cause chemical modifications to C60, Prolonged exposure to air after opening, which increases oxidation of the carrier oil, Metal ions, particularly transition metals like iron and copper, which can catalyze oxidation reactions, Microbial contamination, which can degrade the carrier oil, Improper initial preparation, such as insufficient dissolution time or exposure to light during preparation, Storage in reactive containers (some plastics or metals) that may interact with C60 or the carrier oil

Synthesis Methods

Natural Sources

Quality Considerations

Carbon 60 (C60) has a relatively brief history as a known substance, especially compared to traditional herbal or mineral supplements that have been used for centuries. C60 was discovered in 1985 by Harold Kroto, Robert Curl, and Richard Smalley during experiments aimed at understanding the mechanisms by which long-chain carbon molecules are formed in interstellar space. The researchers used a laser to vaporize graphite, producing a remarkable spherical molecule composed of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a pattern of hexagons and pentagons resembling a soccer ball. This discovery was so significant that Kroto, Curl, and Smalley were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1996 for their work.

Following its discovery, C60 was primarily of interest to researchers in materials science, physics, and chemistry. Early research focused on understanding its unique structure, electronic properties, and potential applications in fields such as superconductivity, optics, and materials engineering. The biological and medical potential of C60 began to emerge in the 1990s, with early studies exploring its antioxidant properties and potential applications in drug delivery. However, C60’s extremely low water solubility presented significant challenges for biological applications.

In the early 2000s, researchers began developing water-soluble derivatives of C60, such as hydroxylated fullerenes (fullerenols), which showed promise in various biomedical applications. These water-soluble derivatives were the focus of most early biological research rather than pristine C60. The turning point for C60 as a potential health supplement came in 2012 with the publication of a landmark study by Baati et al. in the journal Biomaterials.

This study reported that rats given C60 dissolved in olive oil lived nearly twice as long as control rats, with no signs of toxicity. This dramatic finding, though not yet independently replicated, sparked widespread interest in C60 as a potential anti-aging compound. Following the Baati study, C60 dissolved in olive oil began to be produced commercially as a dietary supplement, primarily marketed for its antioxidant properties and potential longevity benefits. This occurred despite the lack of human clinical trials or regulatory approval for such uses.

The supplement gained popularity in biohacking and anti-aging communities, with users sharing anecdotal reports of benefits ranging from increased energy and improved sleep to reduced joint pain and enhanced cognitive function. In recent years, C60 has been formulated with various carrier oils beyond olive oil, including MCT oil, avocado oil, and grape seed oil, each claimed to offer specific advantages. Some manufacturers have also developed more complex formulations combining C60 with other supplements such as curcumin, PQQ, or astaxanthin. In 2021, a study by Grohn et al.

attempted to replicate the Baati findings but found no lifespan extension in mice treated with C60 in olive oil. Instead, they observed light-dependent toxicity in C60-treated mice. This contradictory finding has added to the scientific uncertainty surrounding C60 supplementation. Despite this uncertainty, C60 continues to be used as a supplement by individuals interested in its potential health benefits.

It remains in a regulatory gray area in most countries, neither approved as a drug nor explicitly banned as a supplement. As of 2024, human clinical trials with C60 supplements remain limited, and the compound’s long-term effects in humans are not well-understood. Research continues on both pristine C60 and its derivatives for various medical applications, including drug delivery, photodynamic therapy for cancer, and neuroprotection.

No comprehensive meta-analyses specifically focused on C60 supplementation are currently available. The limited number of clinical studies and their heterogeneity in terms of C60 formulations, dosages, and outcome measures makes meta-analysis challenging., Galvan YP, et al. Fullerenes as anti-aging antioxidants. Current Aging Science. 2017;10(1):56-67. This review article examined the potential of fullerenes as anti-aging compounds, focusing on their antioxidant properties. While not a formal meta-analysis, it synthesized findings from multiple studies and concluded that fullerenes show promise as anti-aging agents, primarily through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects., Mousavi SZ, et al. Fullerene nanoparticle in dermatological and cosmetic applications. Nanomedicine. 2017;13(3):1071-1087. This review examined the use of fullerenes in dermatological and cosmetic applications. It concluded that fullerenes show promise for skin protection and anti-aging effects, but noted significant limitations in the available clinical evidence.

Note: As of 2024, there are very few registered clinical trials specifically investigating C60 fullerenes for health or longevity purposes. Most research remains at the preclinical stage or involves specific medical applications rather than dietary supplementation., Investigation of Carbon 60 Fullerenes for Radiation Protection in Cancer Patients (hypothetical – no actual registered trial), Topical C60 Formulations for Inflammatory Skin Conditions (hypothetical – no actual registered trial), C60 Supplementation for Exercise Recovery in Athletes (hypothetical – no actual registered trial), Evaluation of C60 Olive Oil for Oxidative Stress Reduction in Healthy Adults (hypothetical – no actual registered trial)