shark cartilage

Shark cartilage is a dietary supplement derived from the cartilaginous tissue of sharks such as the spiny dogfish and hammerhead. It has been promoted for a variety of uses including cancer treatment and prevention, arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), osteoporosis, psoriasis, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, Kaposi sarcoma, wound healing, colitis and other inflammatory disorders. The proposed mechanism centers on its antiangiogenic properties—specifically inhibition of new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) that tumors require for growth. This effect is thought to be mediated by glycoproteins such as sphyrnastatin 1 and 2 as well as other unidentified factors that interfere with endothelial cell migration/adhesion and inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Some formulations like Neovastat have shown in vitro inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) binding/activity. Despite these mechanisms observed in preclinical studies or animal models—and anecdotal use—well-controlled clinical trials have not demonstrated efficacy for any indication in humans[1][6][9]. Shark cartilage is not approved by the FDA for any medical use; it is sold only as a dietary supplement.

Brand names

AE-941AE941AE 941NeovastatU995U-995U 995

Other names

shark cartilageSC