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Herbal Pharmacist

The Collagen Connection to Joint Health: Type II Collagen, Collagen Peptides, and HA Matrix

by | Nov 20, 2024 | Aging Gracefully, Bone & Joint, Exercise & Fitness, General Health, Joint Health

Joint health is critical for maintaining mobility and quality of life, especially as we age or engage in physically demanding activities. Among the many nutrients that support joint health, Type II collagen, collagen peptides, and hyaluronic acid (HA) matrix stand out as powerful allies. This trio works synergistically to promote joint structure, reduce discomfort, and enhance mobility. Let’s explore their unique roles and how they can be incorporated into a comprehensive joint care strategy.

Type II Collagen: The Joint’s Structural Backbone

Type II collagen (Collavant n2, for example), sometimes referred to as undenatured or native Type II collagen, is the primary structural protein in cartilage, accounting for up to 90% of its dry weight. It provides tensile strength and elasticity, allowing cartilage to absorb shock and withstand pressure.[i]  There are three primary areas where Type II collagen supports joint health:

Cartilage Repair and Maintenance

  • Type II collagen contributes to the regeneration and maintenance of cartilage, ensuring that joints remain cushioned and protected during movement. [ii]

Immune Regulation

  • Research shows that undenatured Type II collagen can help regulate the immune system, preventing it from attacking cartilage and reducing swelling.[iii]

Pain Reduction

  • Studies indicate that supplementation with Type II collagen can alleviate joint discomfort, particularly in individuals with joint health discomfort. [iv]

(Studies with Collavant n2 have shown it helps reduce joint discomfort, supports mobility, helps reduce the inflammatory response (cytokines), and slows down collagen breakdown.[v] [vi] [vii])

Collagen Peptides: Building Blocks for Joint Health

Collagen peptides (FORTIGEL®, for example) are short chains of amino acids derived from collagen breakdown (usually Type I and Type III). The body easily absorbs and utilizes them to rebuild connective tissues, including cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Let’s look at how collagen peptides impact joint health.

Stimulate Cartilage Synthesis

  • Collagen peptides promote the production of new Type II collagen, which is crucial for maintaining cartilage integrity.[viii]

Hydration and Elasticity

  • Collagen peptides enhance cartilage’s ability to retain water by boosting its extracellular matrix, improving resilience and cushioning.[ix]

Joint Mobility

  • Regular supplementation has been linked to improved joint flexibility and reduced stiffness, making collagen peptides an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.[x]

(Studies with Fortigel® show improvements in mobility and promote cartilage tissue growth.[xi] [xii])

HA Matrix: Lubrication and Cartilage Maintenance

HA Matrix (Mobilee®, for example) is a naturally occurring matrix of hyaluronic acid, polysaccharides, and collagen. Together, they form a patented combination proven to increase hyaluronic acid production and decrease fluid release into the joint, which triggers pain and discomfort.

Enhanced Lubrication

  • HA reduces friction between cartilage surfaces, ensuring smooth and pain-free movement.[xiii]

Stimulating Cartilage Cells

  • HA encourages the activity of chondrocytes, the cells responsible for producing and maintaining cartilage.[xiv]

(Studies done with Mobilee® show that it helps the body produce more HA and supports the reduction of prostaglandin E2 (an immune response that may trigger swelling and discomfort) and joint discomfort.)

The Synergistic Effect

While each of these components offers unique benefits, combining Type II collagen, collagen peptides, and HA matrix creates a synergistic effect:

  • Strengthen and repair cartilage with the structural support of Type II collagen.
  • Rebuild connective tissues using the bioavailable amino acids from collagen peptides.
  • Optimize lubrication and shock absorption with the HA matrix, ensuring smooth and pain-free joint function.

Together, these ingredients address the root causes of joint discomfort and degeneration, offering a comprehensive solution for long-term joint health.  Joint health is not just about avoiding discomfort—it’s about maintaining an active, fulfilling lifestyle. By leveraging the collagen connection—Type II collagen, collagen peptides, and HA matrix—you can provide your joints with the support they need to stay strong, flexible, and resilient. Whether you’re an athlete, an active adult, or someone looking to maintain mobility as you age, this powerful combination offers a natural path to healthier, happier joints.

References:

[i] Wu Z, Korntner SH, Mullen AM, Zeugolis DI. Collagen type II: From biosynthesis to advanced biomaterials for cartilage engineering. Biomater Biosyst. 2021 Nov 22;4:100030. doi: 10.1016/j.bbiosy.2021.100030. PMID: 36824570; PMCID: PMC9934443.

[ii] Wu Z, Korntner SH, Mullen AM, Zeugolis DI. Collagen type II: From biosynthesis to advanced biomaterials for cartilage engineering. Biomater Biosyst. 2021 Nov 22;4:100030. doi: 10.1016/j.bbiosy.2021.100030. PMID: 36824570; PMCID: PMC9934443.

[iii] Bagchi D, Misner B, Bagchi M, Kothari SC, Downs BW, Fafard RD, Preuss HG. Effects of orally administered undenatured type II collagen against arthritic inflammatory diseases: a mechanistic exploration. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res. 2002;22(3-4):101-10. PMID: 12837047.

[iv] Möller et al. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage 2024  2024. 32 (6): P769

[v] Bakilan et al. Eurasian J Med (2016); 48: 95-101

[vi] Mannelli et al. Osteopor. Int. 2015, vol. 26, pg. 184.

[vii] Scarpellini et al. J Orthopaed Traumatol (2008) 9:81–87

[viii] Khatri M, Naughton RJ, Clifford T, Harper LD, Corr L. The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review. Amino Acids. 2021

[ix] Khatri M, Naughton RJ, Clifford T, Harper LD, Corr L. The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review. Amino Acids. 2021 Oct;53(10):1493-1506. doi: 10.1007/s00726-021-03072-x. Epub 2021 Sep 7. PMID: 34491424; PMCID: PMC8521576.

[x] Khatri M, Naughton RJ, Clifford T, Harper LD, Corr L. The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review. Amino Acids. 2021 Oct;53(10):1493-1506. doi: 10.1007/s00726-021-03072-x. Epub 2021 Sep 7. PMID: 34491424; PMCID: PMC8521576.

[xi] Zdzieblik D, Brame J, Oesser S, Gollhofer A, König D. The Influence of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides on Knee Joint Discomfort in Young Physically Active Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2021 Feb 5;13(2):523. doi: 10.3390/nu13020523. PMID: 33562729; PMCID: PMC7915677.

[xii] Clark KL, Sebastianelli W, Flechsenhar KR, Aukermann DF, Meza F, Millard RL, Deitch JR, Sherbondy PS, Albert A. 24-Week study on the use of collagen hydrolysate as a dietary supplement in athletes with activity-related joint pain. Curr Med Res Opin. 2008 May;24(5):1485-96. doi: 10.1185/030079908×291967. Epub 2008 Apr 15. PMID: 18416885.

[xiii] Tamer TM. Hyaluronan and synovial joint: function, distribution and healing. Interdiscip Toxicol. 2013 Sep;6(3):111-25. doi: 10.2478/intox-2013-0019. PMID: 24678248; PMCID: PMC3967437

[xiv] Nascimento LD, Nicoletti NF, Peletti-Figueiró M, Marinowic D, Falavigna A. Hyaluronic Acid In Vitro Response: Viability and Proliferation Profile of Human Chondrocytes in 3D-Based Culture. Cartilage. 2021 Dec;13(2_suppl):1077S-1087S. doi: 10.1177/19476035211057244. Epub 2021 Nov 15. PMID: 34775798; PMCID: PMC8804839.