The Use of Collagen Hydrolysates and Native Collagen in Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative disease that dampens the quality of life of those who suffer it. Conventional treatments are palliative, they are targeted to reduce joint pain. However, more efforts are needed to find new therapies that are able to positively affect or at least stop the course of this degenerative disease. Amongst the different therapeutic options that are being studied, collagen emerges as a good candidate due to its safety and preclinical and clinical evidence. Two different approaches have been taken for collagen: collagen hydrolysates and native collagen. Research studies have shown that both types of collagen nutraceuticals are effective in reducing osteoarthritis pain, in animal models and in human clinical trials, however through different mechanisms of action. Hydrolyzed collagen can be absorbed and reach the target site where collagen synthesis is needed, while native collagen, which is poorly absorbed, could work through a mechanism of oral tolerance induction. Thus, collagen represents an interesting therapeutic option to improve osteoarthritis.