Purified chondroitin sulphate from shark cartilage
Chondroitin sulphate is a highly sulphated complex carbohydrate found in the connective tissue and joints of all mammals, and is a member of the family of glycosoaminoglycans (GAGs). Chondroitin sulphate is a key component in the maintenance of joint health and function, and in the repair and rebuilding of cartilage. As a result, it is a useful supplement in addressing osteoarthritis and other conditions and is also a mild anti-inflammatory 1.
Chondroitin sulphate is hygroscopic and as such it acts like a ‘water magnet’ drawing fluid into the tissues and cartilage that serve as a “pad” for the joints. This fluid plays two important roles; it attracts essential nutrients to the area and it makes the cartilage spongier and better able to absorb shocks. Chondroitin sulphate also protects healthy cartilage from premature decay by preventing the production of certain enzymes that weaken connective tissue and by inhibiting others that stop nutrients from reaching the cartilage.
Chondroitin Sulphate Molecule
Many researchers are convinced that chondroitin sulphate strengthens the protein strands that make up connective tissue, and it may reduce inflammation and rebuild cartilage, especially if the tissue has not been totally destroyed. Chondroitin sulphate may also protect healthy cartilage from premature decay and may be involved in reducing the pain that often accompanies osteoarthritis 2.
Distributors and users of chondroitin sulphate continue to search the globe for an alternative and economical supply of chondroitin sulphate manufactured using natural and non-solvent based processes, and material that has consistent and reliable bioactivity. The key market drivers are cost, naturalness and efficacy. Look no further because New Vision Biotech is poised to deliver such material using a ‘world-first’ water-based manufacturing technology that results in a unique chondroitin sulphate offering that meets market demands. The company has secured from CSIRO an exclusive worldwide license for access to the ‘solvent-free’ process used to manufacture the unique chondroitin sulphate offering. This new process is economical, natural and non-toxic (solvent and solvent-residue free), environmentally-friendly, cost-effective, and will generate chondroitin sulphate with enhanced bioactivity (CSIRO analysis).
New Vision Biotech is actively working with CSIRO in developing the new ‘water-based’ manufacturing technology, and in upscaling and establishing a manufacturing facility in Australia for production of the new offering. This purified chondroitin sulphate, unique in the world, will have a purity in excess of 92% and be highly bio-functional. The company anticipates that kilogram quantities will be available to the market for trial purposes in October 2011.
When available, the unique purified chondroitin sulphate from New Vision Biotech will be marketed as a white spray-dried powder in 5, 10 and 20 kg bags. Bulk quantity (>200 kg/order) discounts will apply.
- Zhang W, Moskowitz RW. (2007) “OARSI recommendations for the management of hip and knee osteoarthritis, Part I: Critical appraisal of existing treatment guidelines and systematic review of current research evidence activity”. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage 15: 981-999
- Jordan KM, Arden NK (2003). “An evidence based approach to the management of knee osteoarthritis: Report of a Task Force of the Standing Committee for International Clinical Studies Including Therapeutic Trials (ESCISIT)”. Ann. Rheum. Dis. 62: 1145–1155