Gray, S. K, (SGC) and Croft, J. E. (Scientific Marine), Auckland, New Zealand
The proportion of the population aged 60 or over has increased significantly over the last decades and will continue to do so.[1] The World Health Organization estimates that globally 24% of adults over 65yr suffer from pain and disability associated with Osteoarthritis. As the population ages, Quality of Life for Seniors is becoming increasingly important as chronic ageing related disorders become more prevalent.[2]
In young people and those not affected by degenerative conditions such as arthritis, the rate of cartilage degeneration in the joints is equalled by that of regeneration (homeostasis). As people age and also in those with chronic rheumatoid and osteo arthritic disease, this balance becomes upset leading to progressive joint tissue breakdown. [3] The results of the breakdown in the integrity of the joint structure are pain, swelling, and limited mobility – all of which can result in a reduced quality of life for those affected. [4]
There are more than 20 different forms of the degenerative enzymes called Matrix Metalloproteases or MMPs naturally present in our body of which at least four are specifically related to joint tissues. These enzymes can become overactive as we age causing joint tissue degeneration. [5] Inhibiting the action of these MMPs has been a major focus of efforts to develop new therapeutics for osteoarthritis for some time.[6]
Recent research has shown that Biolane Green Lipped Mussel Extract can inhibit the activity of many of these MMP enzymes, including those implicated in joint tissue destruction.
This graph shows the values for inhibition of a range of MMPs by Biolane compared with other commercially available Green-Lipped mussel products (both powders and oils).
Only Biolane was able to inhibit the joint destructive activities of the MMP enzymes.
This important study adds a new dimension to the more than 30 years of scientific research conducted on Biolane, and was carried out by an independent laboratory specialising in high technology research into the bioactivity mechanisms of natural therapeutic products.[7]
This research is the first indication that Biolane Green Lipped Mussel Extract may slow down degenerative effects of ageing and conditions such as osteo and rheumatoid arthritis in joint tissues. It adds weight to the well documented anti-inflammatory properties of Biolane; making it an excellent choice for joint support therapy for seniors and those with degenerative joint conditions.[8]
References
[1] World Population Ageing 1950-2050 – United Nations Population Division DESA
[2] Breedveld, F. C, “Osteoarthritis – the Impact of a Serious Disease”, Rheumatology 43 (Suppl. 1):i4-i8 2004.
[3] Iannone, F., Lapadula, G, “The Pathophysiology of Osteoarthritis”. Aging Clinical Research Oct;15(5):364-72, 2003.
[4] Moskowitz, R. W, “The Burden of Osteoarthritis: Clinical and Quality-of-LifeIissues”, The American Journal of Managed Care, Sep; 15(8Suppl): S223-9, 2009.
[5] Iannone, F., Lapadula, G, “The Pathophysiology of Osteoarthritis”. Aging Clinical Research Oct;15(5):364-72, 2003.
[6] Berenbaum, F, “The Quest for the Holy Grail: a Disease-Modifying Osteoarthritis Drug”, Arthritis Research and Therapy 111, 2007.
[7] Data on file Vitaco Health NZ Ltd
[8] BiolaneTechnical Dossier, Adis 2002
