Shark Cartilage Research
Shark cartilage has been used since the early 1950s as a treatment for chronic inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, and as an analgesic for the relief of the associated pain of these conditions. More recently, shark cartilage has been promoted as having antiangiogenic properties.
Shark Cartilage and Angiogenesis
Angiogenesis is a complex process of new blood vessel formation, central to normal development and homeostasis. However, uncontrolled angiogenesis can be a factor in inflammatory disorders.
In 1997, scientists working at the Wellington School of Medicine in New Zealand were able to show for the first time that not only did shark cartilage contain a factor that reduces new blood vessel formation, but this factor can be absorbed in an active form when taken orally in the diet. (Microvascular Research, 1977).
In 1998, Dupont et al were also able to demonstrate anti-angiogenesis activity of a shark cartilage extract (Journal of Surgical Research, 1998). These researchers also found that the shark cartilage extract had anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the forearms of subjects. It was not until recently that researchers were able to demonstrate this anti-angiogenic effect of shark cartilage in human subjects. Berbari et al (1999) were able to demonstrate an anti-angiogenic effect of orally administered shark cartilage extract in healthy male volunteers.
The isolation and identification of the active compounds in shark cartilage is continuing in the scientific community. It is known however that both the
protein fraction and the
chondroitin sulphate have crucial roles in the control of inflammation and pain and the inhibition of blood vessel growth.
Contact Waitaki Biosciences for further information on
Shark Cartilage Powder Research.