Specific collagen peptides benefit the biosynthesis of matrix molecules of tendons and ligaments

Background An intact composition of extracellular matrix (ECM) collagens, proteoglycans and elastic fibres are responsible for the constitutional strength of tendons and ligaments [1,2]. It is known that pathophysiological changes in the ECM could lead to reduced extension properties and diminished capacity of energy absorption of ligaments and tendons and could promote diseases like patellar tip syndrome, tendinopathy and rupture [3,4]. In a clinical study it could be demonstrated that the oral ingestion of specific collagen peptides improved extension properties of the finger joints [5]. Aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of a specific collagen peptide composition (FORTIGEL) on the extracellular matrix of ligaments and Achilles tendons. Previous experimental studies confirmed the stimulatory impact of these bioactive collagen peptides on the ECM biosynthesis of joint cartilage tissue [6-8].