Sydney and Kuala Lumpur events unite world-leading experts as Mitochondrial Health gains recognition as a defining force in healthy ageing, and healthspan
Researchers and clinicians identify Ubiquinol as a foundational nutrient in the Mitoceuticals category, supporting mitochondrial function throughout life, from preconception to healthy ageing
SYDNEY, June 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The inaugural global Mitochondrial Health Summit has marked a milestone for healthcare, positioning Mitochondrial Health at the forefront of the growing movement: advancing healthspan through science beginning at the cellular level.
Held in Sydney (26 June), with a simultaneous satellite event in Kuala Lumpur, the Summit attracted 250+ delegates across complementary medicine, nutrition, pharmacy, education and research, reflecting growing interest in the role of mitochondrial function in lifelong health.
The Summit arrives at a pivotal moment for healthcare. As populations worldwide seek healthy ageing strategies, the conversation is shifting upstream towards the biological mechanisms underpinning health. At the centre are the mitochondria – the body's 'cellular powerhouses', which generate the energy required for organs, tissues and biological systems to function effectively.
Mitochondrial health is supported by Ubiquinol, a naturally occurring, lipid-soluble antioxidant which helps reduce cellular damage, and supports wellbeing through life stages from pre-conception to ageing, including cardiovascular health, cognition, women's health, energy levels and general health. However, Ubiquinol levels decline naturally from the age of 20+.
Across presentations spanning cardiology, reproductive health, women's health, complementary medicine, pharmacy and nutrition, a common theme emerged: the future of healthcare will be shaped by our understanding of sub-cellular health.
"For over four decades, Kaneka has invested in advancing mitochondrial health science because we believe it sits at the very core of human wellbeing," says Tsuyoshi Takakuwa, Head of Marketing and Sales Team (APAC), Supplemental Nutrition Business Division, Kaneka Corporation.
"We believe the age of 'mitoceuticals' has arrived, mitochondrial health will become one of the defining healthcare conversations of the next decade", added Takakuwa.
As the underwriting sponsor of the Summit, Kaneka Ubiquinol™ further strengthened its position at the forefront of the mitochondrial health sector.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Upstream Shift – across cardiology, women's health, reproductive health and healthy ageing, a recurring theme was the growing scientific interest in the role of mitochondrial function across multiple areas of health as foundational. Research is contributing to the understanding of how mitochondrial biology may be involved in physiological pathways, supporting ongoing investigation into its relevance for clinical practice.
- The Gut-Mitochondria Axis – preliminary evidence suggests the intricate communication between the gut microbiome and mitochondrial function, revealing potential implications for metabolic health, immune regulation, inflammation, energy production.
- The 'Age of Mitoceuticals' – nutrients key to mitochondrial energy production, including Ubiquinol, acknowledged as foundational components of healthspan strategies for mitochondrial support, vitality, resilience and healthy ageing through targeted nutritional and clinical approaches.
- Lifetime Scientific Excellence in Ubiquinol Research awarded to Dr Kazunori Hosoe PhD, Chief Scientist, Kaneka Ubiquinol™, for 50+ years of CoQ10 and Ubiquinol research. His contributions have helped establish a scientific foundation that continues to shape mitochondrial research and clinical practice globally.
ABOUT THE GLOBAL MITOCHONDRIAL HEALTH SUMMIT 2026
An international healthcare professional education platform dedicated to advancing scientific understanding and clinical application of mitochondrial health, cellular health and healthy ageing.
The faculty included internationally respected experts Dr Olivia Lesslar, Dr Ross Walker, Dr Christabelle Yeoh, Dr Denise Furness PhD, Dr Leah Hechtman PhD, Rhiannon Hardingham, Gerald Quigley, Bobby Mehta and Prof. Dr Mogana Sundari Rajagopal, reflecting the increasingly multidisciplinary nature of mitochondrial science.
ABOUT KANEKA UBIQUINOL™
Kaneka Corporation is the sole global innovative manufacturer of clinically researched bioidentical Ubiquinol, manufactured with an award-winning Japanese natural fermentation process. Supported by 100+ scientific studies, 80+ patents and 45+ years of research, antioxidant-active Ubiquinol supports mitochondrial health, cardiovascular health, cognition, women's health, reproductive health, energy and wellbeing. Listed in 50+ countries in 1,000+ nutraceutical brands since 2006, with certifications including HALAL, GRAS, HACCP, NDI, KOSHER, GMP, ISO 14001, ISO 22000, Non-GMO and OSHMS.
All speakers declare receipt of an honorarium from Kaneka Ubiquinol™ APAC for the preparation and delivery of the Mitochondrial Health Summit 2026 presentation. Content is the speakers' own work and was developed independently without commercial influence.
References available on request.
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GLOBAL MITOCHONDRIAL HEALTH SUMMIT 2026 POSITIONS MITOCHONDRIAL HEALTH AS THE FOUNDATION OF HEALTHSPAN
GLOBAL MITOCHONDRIAL HEALTH SUMMIT 2026 POSITIONS MITOCHONDRIAL HEALTH AS THE FOUNDATION OF HEALTHSPAN
Nestled at the entrance of Montenegro's UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor the intimate island sanctuary is housed in a restored 19th-century fortress encircled by sea and sky
HERCEG NOVI, Montenegro, June 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" – SGX: B58), an independent global hospitality company, officially unveils Mamula Island by Banyan Tree in its first full season under its flagship Banyan Tree brand, marking Banyan Tree's first resort in Europe.
Set on a secluded islet at the entrance of the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor (known locally as Boka Bay), Mamula Island by Banyan Tree is housed in a restored 19th-century fortress encircled by sea and sky, with far-reaching views across the Adriatic. Following its addition to the Banyan Tree portfolio, the 32-room island sanctuary now features the brand's award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, alongside refreshed brand experiences spanning destination-led dining, cultural programming, wellbeing and nature-based discovery.
A Guardian of the Bay of Kotor
Originally built in the 1850s, Fort Mamula once served as a coastal defence fortification at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor. Its seven-year restoration was led by developer Samih Sawiris, in partnership with Lisbon-based MCM Architecture & Design, Montenegrin conservation and architecture studio Projektor, and local heritage authorities.
Interior design was overseen by Piotr Wisniewski and weStudio Berlin, combining mid-century influences, local craftsmanship and bespoke furniture. Across the resort, natural stone, aged brass, solid oak and organic textiles create interiors that are warm, understated and enduring.
The arch, a defining feature of the original fortress, is reinterpreted throughout the resort, including in a custom-made furniture line developed for the hotel. The design also draws on local artisanal traditions, from pottery and joinery to abstract fine art, creating a contemporary retreat grounded in the island and the wider region.
Rooms and Suites Overlooking the Adriatic
The journey to the island begins with a private boat transfer across Boka Bay or a helicopter flight from Dubrovnik or Tivat, with views over Montenegro's coastline and the Adriatic Sea.
The Adriatic is a constant presence throughout the resort, with all rooms and suites offering sea views. Heritage Suites are set within the original fortress structure, preserving stonework and heritage features, while newly built rooms and suites feature contemporary interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces. The Heritage Sky Suites have been recognised as "Best Hotel Suite" at AHEAD Awards Europe and ranked among the world's top ten suites.
Dining Across Land and Sea
Dining at Mamula Island by Banyan Tree is shaped by local produce, fresh seafood and the micro-seasonality of the Montenegrin coast. Parasol, set at the heart of the fortress beside three outdoor pools, offers a crudo concept centred on just-caught seafood, while Kamena Restaurant overlooks the Adriatic and highlights land-led flavours and locally harvested ingredients.
Perched on the edge of the island, Celeste offers a relaxed outdoor terrace experience inspired by coastal cooking traditions from Italy, the Caribbean and the Levant. As evening falls, guests can gather at Pinea Bar, an intimate speakeasy-style bar offering handcrafted cocktails and vinyl nights under the stars.
A Restorative Island Journey
Located within the historic fortress tower, Banyan Tree Spa offers a wellbeing experience guided by the brand's 8 Pillars of Wellbeing. Treatments draw on local plants, oils and natural elements, with rituals designed to reflect the island's setting and the restorative qualities of the surrounding landscape.
The spa features an indoor gym, ritual rooms, Finnish and herbal saunas, steam room, halotherapy room, flotation chamber and experience shower. Guests can also experience hydro and weightless therapies, including a meditative float experience, as well as traditional Thai, Javanese Indonesian and Chinese healing therapies, therapeutic bodywork and the brand's signature Royal Banyan treatment.
Beyond the spa, the island offers space for quiet restoration and outdoor discovery. At the northern tip of the island, a serviced beach features sunbeds, individual coves and views towards Herceg Novi, with direct access to the island's natural coastline.
Guests can explore the island, coastline and Luštica Peninsula by kayak, paddleboard, water bike or e-bike. Further afield, curated experiences include Boka Bay, sunrise swims in the Blue Cave, Kotor Old Town, Royal Lovćen and Cetinje, Skadar Lake and the Tara River. Luštica food tours and local discovery experiences connect guests with Montenegro's history, landscapes and coastal life.
Creative and Cultural Programming
Cultural programming is central to the Mamula Island experience. A new Artists-in-Residence programme brings local and regional creatives to the island, with workshops, exhibitions, maker sessions, opera evenings, live music and the Operosa Music Festival offering guests a closer connection to the region's creative community.
Mamula Island by Banyan Tree is also available for full island buyout for weddings, private events and retreats, with a collection of distinctive venues spanning the restored fortress, open-air terraces, gardens, spa facilities and beach.
For more information and reservations, please visit banyantree.com.
For high-resolution images, please download here.
ABOUT BANYAN GROUP
Banyan Group ("Banyan Tree Holdings Limited" or the "Group" - SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans 100 hotels and resorts, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20 plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 13 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of "Embracing the Environment, Empowering People" is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.
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Mamula Island by Banyan Tree Celebrates its Official Debut Season as Banyan Tree's First Resort in Europe
