Shark Cartilage Concentrate
Also known as: Shark cartilage, AE-941, Neovastat, Shark Cartilage Concentrate
Overview
Shark cartilage concentrate is a marine-derived supplement obtained from the skeletal connective tissue of sharks, primarily species like *Prionace glauca* (blue shark). It is rich in collagen peptides and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), including chondroitin sulfate. Historically, it has been marketed for joint health, particularly for osteoarthritis, due to its purported anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, specific extracts like AE-941 (Neovastat) have been investigated for their potential antiangiogenic and antitumor effects, stemming from preclinical observations. While it contains bioactive molecules, the overall research maturity is moderate, with a mix of preclinical and some human clinical trials. However, high-quality evidence supporting its clinical efficacy for any indication remains limited, with systematic reviews often highlighting methodological limitations in existing studies.
Benefits
Research on shark cartilage concentrate suggests potential benefits, though robust human clinical evidence is largely insufficient. In an experimental rat model of osteoarthritis, a fish cartilage hydrolysate (similar to shark cartilage) demonstrated a tendency to accelerate pain relief and improve joint function within four weeks, although it did not significantly improve cartilage lesions. This suggests a potential for symptomatic relief in joint conditions. Preclinical studies, particularly with the extract AE-941, have shown antiangiogenic and antitumor effects, indicating a theoretical basis for cancer adjunct therapy. However, these effects have not translated into clear clinical benefits in human trials. Secondary effects include potential anti-inflammatory actions through the modulation of pro-inflammatory mediators like IL-1, nitric oxide, and prostaglandin E2, primarily observed in animal and in vitro studies. The strength of evidence for these benefits is generally low for human applications, with most findings derived from animal models or in vitro research, and human clinical trials often lacking statistically significant outcomes.
How it works
Shark cartilage concentrate is believed to exert its effects through several biological pathways. Its anti-inflammatory properties are thought to involve the downregulation of pro-inflammatory mediators such as interleukin-1 (IL-1), nitric oxide (NO), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), as observed in animal models. This modulation could contribute to pain relief and reduced inflammation in joint tissues. The antiangiogenic activity, primarily studied with the extract AE-941, involves the inhibition of endothelial cell proliferation and migration, thereby potentially impeding the formation of new blood vessels that are crucial for tumor growth. The collagen peptides and glycosaminoglycans present in shark cartilage are thought to interact with components of the extracellular matrix, supporting joint structure. While hydrolyzed forms may improve oral bioavailability, the exact pharmacokinetics and specific molecular targets in humans are not yet fully characterized.
Side effects
Shark cartilage concentrate is generally considered safe, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in available studies. There are no consistent reports of common side effects (occurring in >5% of users). Uncommon side effects (1-5%) are rare, with anecdotal reports of mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Serious adverse events (occurring in <1%) have not been documented in clinical trials. Regarding drug interactions, no well-documented interactions exist; however, caution is advised for individuals taking anticoagulants due to a theoretical, unproven risk of increased bleeding. Contraindications are not formally established, but individuals with known seafood allergies should exercise caution. Insufficient data exist regarding the safety and efficacy of shark cartilage in special populations, including pregnant or lactating women, children, or immunocompromised patients, thus its use in these groups is not recommended without medical supervision.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for shark cartilage concentrate is not well established in humans. Animal studies have utilized doses that would be roughly equivalent to 1 gram per day in humans. Optimal dosage ranges for human use are not clearly defined, as clinical trials have varied widely in their protocols, and there is no consensus on a standard therapeutic dose. A maximum safe dose has not been determined, as no toxicity has been reported at typical supplement doses. There are no specific timing recommendations for administration, though chronic use is generally presumed for conditions like joint health. Hydrolyzed cartilage preparations are thought to have better absorption and bioavailability compared to unhydrolyzed forms due to smaller peptide sizes. No specific cofactors are identified as necessary for its efficacy or absorption.
FAQs
Is shark cartilage effective for osteoarthritis?
Evidence is limited and inconclusive. While some animal studies suggest symptomatic relief, human trials lack robust support for its efficacy in treating osteoarthritis.
Does shark cartilage help cancer?
Despite promising preclinical findings, clinical evidence does not support the efficacy of shark cartilage or its extracts in treating cancer in humans.
Is shark cartilage safe?
It is generally considered safe with minimal side effects reported, primarily mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Caution is advised for those with seafood allergies.
How long before effects are seen?
Animal models suggest potential effects within weeks, but human data are insufficient to define a clear time course for benefits.
Are there better alternatives for joint health?
Established supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin have more extensive evidence supporting their use for joint health compared to shark cartilage.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8194757/ – This animal study investigated the effects of fish cartilage hydrolysate on rats with induced osteoarthritis. It found that the hydrolysate accelerated pain relief and improved joint function within 4 weeks, although it did not significantly improve cartilage lesions. The study suggests potential symptomatic benefits but highlights the need for human trials.
- https://scholars.mssm.edu/en/publications/shark-cartilage-an-evidence-based-systematic-review-for-the-natur-2 – This systematic review evaluated the evidence for shark cartilage, including AE-941, for various indications. It concluded that there is insufficient evidence to recommend shark cartilage for any condition, despite some preclinical promise for antiangiogenic effects, which did not translate to clinical efficacy in human trials. The review emphasizes the lack of high-quality human data.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9605125/ – This experimental study focused on the extraction and biochemical characterization of blue shark cartilage. It described the methods for processing and isolating components from shark cartilage, providing insights into its composition. However, it did not include clinical outcomes or efficacy data, focusing instead on the methodological aspects of obtaining the material.
Supplements Containing Shark Cartilage Concentrate
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