In human proof-of-concept “pilot” non-arthritis studies conducted by third parties, astaxanthin statistically significantly decreased markers of inflammation of relevance to arthritis, including TNF-α and CRP:

  • TNF-α decreased (-30%, p=0.0022)
  • CRP decreased (-20%, p<0.05; two studies)
  • Adiponectin increased (+26%, p<0.01; +14%, p=0.0053; +30%, p=0.01; three studies)
  • Oxidative stress decreased (MDA, IsoP, SOD, TAC increased)

In animal studies conducted by third parties, astaxanthin statistically significantly decreased inflammation, oxidative stress, and joint degeneration:

  • Inflammatory markers decreased in various model systems:
    • TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CRP, NF-kB, PGE-2, iNOS, MCP-1, MPO, ERK, JNK, COX-2
    • TNF-α decreased equivalent to an equal dose of prednisolone
  • Oxidative stress decreased in mitochondria
  • Cartilage degradation decreased (Mankin score) in surgically-induced model of OA (ACLT, rabbit)