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COLLAGEN TYPE II
(UC-II®)
The main structural protein in cartilage
Collagen is the main component of the connective tissues that form tendons, ligaments, skin and cartilage. Although it has many important functions in the body, collagen is primarily known for its structural role, providing a structural framework for tissues throughout the body. Of the 28 different types of collagen identified, type II collagen is the major structural protein in cartilage.
Both native (undenatured) and hydrolyzed (denatured) type II collagen are available for commercial use in joint health products. However, there are significant differences between the two forms.
COLLAGEN TYPE II (UC-II®)
Native form (not denatured) - triple helix.
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Denatured - cut into small peptides.
UC-II® collagen vs. hydrolyzed collagen
What's the difference?
In its natural form, collagen has a folded triple helix structure consisting of long polypeptide chains. Hydrolyzed collagen is manufactured by a specific hydrolysis process, where enzymes “cut” the triple helix molecule into smaller pieces, i.e. short-chain peptides. This is why hydrolyzed collagen is also known as collagen peptides or denatured type II collagen. On the other hand, Artrovit’s UC-II® collagen is not hydrolyzed and maintains its characteristic three-dimensional structure.
The role of the immune system
in joint health
Joint disorders
Joint disorders involving cartilage inflammation and erosion, such as arthritic diseases, are characterized by an autoimmune component in which the immune system acts against the body’s own type II collagen.8 Classically, osteoarthritis (OA) has been characterized as a degenerative, wear-and-tear disease. However, recent scientific research has identified it as an immunopathological disease, that is, a disease in which the immune system plays a key role.
This is because, in osteoarthritis, the by-products of collagen breakdown can be recognized by the cells of the immune system as potentially harmful. As a result, an immune response against collagen is activated, leading to inflammation and cartilage degradation, further damaging the joints.
