1. Fortigel® Patents and Core Technology
Fortigel®, a patented formula owned by GELITA AG, focuses on the preparation of low-molecular-weight collagen hydrolysate and its bioactivity on chondrocytes and joint tissue. Its key technology utilizes a specialized enzymatic hydrolysis process to break down collagen into short peptides with an average molecular weight of less than approximately 1,000 Daltons. These optimized peptides are more easily absorbed in the intestine and have the ability to specifically stimulate cartilage matrix cells (chondrocytes). These specialized peptides trigger new cartilage tissue formation within the joint environment and positively regulate degenerative factors.
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2. Mechanism of Action (Three Major Directions Supported by Biomedical Research)
1. Promote chondrocyte proliferation and matrix synthesis
The bioactive collagen peptides in Fortigel® have been shown to stimulate chondrocytes to synthesize type II collagen and proteoglycans, which are the main structural and cushioning components of cartilage, thereby improving the elasticity and ability of cartilage to withstand stress.
2. Slow down cartilage degradation (regulate MMPs and anti-inflammation)
Joint degeneration is often associated with overactivation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and chronic, low-grade inflammation, which leads to collagen and proteoglycan degradation. Supplementation with specific collagen peptides can inhibit the imbalance of these enzymes through indirect mechanisms (such as altering the local microenvironment and affecting cell signaling), thereby slowing further cartilage destruction. A systematic review suggests that collagen derivatives have the potential to improve joint repair and symptom relief, with fewer side effects than traditional palliative medications.
3. Indirect support for bone matrix and bone density
While Fortigel® primarily targets cartilage, supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides has also been linked to maintaining and improving bone density. Studies have shown that long-term (typically ≥6-12 months) supplementation with specific collagen peptides can improve bone density in the spine and femoral neck, likely by promoting bone formation markers and strengthening the structural integration of the collagen matrix.
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3. Clinical Evidence and Safety
In 2008, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial at Pennsylvania State University recruited 147 athletes with an average age of 20.1 years and divided them into a FORTIGEL® group and a placebo group. For 24 weeks, the treating physician and the subjects used a visual analog scale (VAS) to score pain severity. The FORTIGEL® group showed a significant improvement in pain perception.
In 2011, McAlindon et al. (Tufts Medical Center × Harvard University) conducted a pilot study in which 30 patients with early-stage knee osteoarthritis were enrolled and supplemented with 10 g of FORTIGEL® or placebo daily for 48 weeks. Cartilage proteoglycan density was measured by dGEMRI at weeks 0, 24, and 48. The FORTIGEL® group showed a significant increase in medial and lateral tibial cartilage density.
Brazil Anvisa functional declaration approved in 2022
Anvisa approved on September 26, 2022: Daily intake of 5 g of FORTIGEL® may help maintain joint health
FORTIGEL® becomes the first ingredient to receive this type I collagen functional claim in Brazil
In terms of safety, it is highly biocompatible, derived from type I collagen, which is highly compatible with human connective tissue. It has been recognized by regulatory agencies in many countries, including the European Union and Brazil, and is labeled as safe.
Fortigel®, a patented bioactive collagen peptide, boasts superior absorption properties through molecular design and targeted bioactivity for joint cartilage regeneration. Multiple clinical studies support its effectiveness in alleviating joint pain, improving function, and potentially supporting bone matrix function, all while maintaining a favorable safety profile. CH-Alpha packages Fortigel® in a liquid form for convenient and stable supplementation, making it a scientifically sound choice for those seeking to maintain joint mobility, slow joint degeneration, or protect joints under high-load conditions.
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References (primary sources)
1. GELITA official Fortigel® product and mechanism introduction.
2. Zdzieblik D. et al.: A randomized controlled trial of specific bioactive collagen peptides for activity-related knee pain (2021).
3. Zdzieblik D. et al.: Effects of bioactive collagen peptides on bone mineral density (osteopenia/osteoporosis related) in a long-term study.
4. Systematic review: The role of collagen derivatives in osteoarthritis and cartilage repair (Honvo et al., 2020).
5. A comprehensive literature review of collagen peptides for overall joint and skin/bone health (2023 related review).
6. Official press release/report on new research and enhanced effects of Fortigel®.
7. UCLA Health Report: Potential positive effects of collagen peptides on bone density after menopause.
8. Background discussion of the overall evidence and alternative therapies for collagen derivatives in joint care.