Collagen supplementation as a complementary therapy for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis: a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: Collagen hydrolysate is recognized as a safe nutraceutical, whose combination of amino acids stimulates the synthesis of collagen in the extracellular matrix of cartilage and other tissues. Objective: to conduct a systematic review of literature on the action of collagen hydrolysate in bone and cartilaginous tissue and its therapeutic use against osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Method: a study of the PubMed, MEDLINE, LILACS, and SciELO databases was performed. Articles published in English and Portuguese in the period of 1994 to 2014 were considered. Results: the sample comprised nine experimental articles with in vivo (animals and humans) and in vitro (human cells) models, which found that the use of different doses of collagen hydrolysate were associated with the maintenance of bone composition and strength, and the proliferation and cell growth of cartilage. Conclusion: hydrolyzed collagen has a positive therapeutic effect on osteoporosis and osteoarthritis with a potential increase in bone mineral density, a protective effect on articular cartilage, and especially in the symptomatic relief of pain.

Collagens of Poriferan Origin

“…In addition to their structural function in cartilage and skin formation [ 1 , 2 ], as well as in the biomineralization of hard tissues [ 3 ] including bone [ 4 ] and dentine [ 5 ], collagens are involved in the regulation of diverse cellular functions and processes. During the last 60 years, research into collagens has evolved from the discovery of the structure of collagen [ 6 , 7 ], through studies on its chemistry and biochemistry [ 8 , 9 , 10 ], to present-day applications in cell therapy [ 11 ], biomedicine [ 12 , 13 , 14 ], cosmetics [ 15 ], and the food industry [ 16 ]. A rod-like triple-helical domain is the typical structural element in all collagens.…”

Beneficial effects of food supplements based on hydrolyzed collagen for skin care (Review)

“…Collagen fibers confer tensile strength to these tissues. Hydrolyzed collagen is rich in amino acids such as glycine and proline, and after digestion it accumulates in the cartilage or skin and helps maintain stability or regeneration (7).…”

Comprehensive research into quality of the immunostimulating beverage “immuno plus”

“…Collagen may be one of such proteins. Promising randomized studies showed that the oral intake of 10 g of hydrolyzate of collagen per day within three months decreases pain and improves the function of joints in patients with diagnosed osteoarthritis and osteoporosis [11,12].…”