DSM Nutritional Products was at the World Congress on Osteoarthritis in Rome last week to present new research that demonstrates additional benefits for their new joint health supplement, i-flex™. The latest advantages of the specially processed rosehip powder used in i-flex™ (and LitoZin™ for the European market) have been demonstrated in a host of placebo controlled human clinical studies over the past decade. The mechanism of action is considered to be a combination of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative processes attributable to the vitamins, carotenoids and galactolipids found in the product. New studies conducted by DSM Nutritional Products have now gone a stage further, demonstrating protective and even regenerative effects on human cartilage cells in-vitro.
According to senior author Dr. Joseph Schwager: “Our studies demonstrate that i-flex™ reduces catabolic processes (and thus degeneration) in human cartilage cells and at the same time enhances anabolic processes (i.e. regeneration).” Lead author Nathalie Richard adds: “We also confirmed the anti-inflammatory effects of i-flex™ in different cell populations that contribute to joint inflammation.” The new in-vitro data provides additional evidence on the cellular and molecular level and compliments the thorough body of published human clinical evidence of i-flex™ for positive effects on joint health.
The World Congress on Osteoarthritis is the leading scientific forum for research on osteoarthritis and was attended by over 1,000 of the world's leading scientists, clinicians, clinical investigators, rheumatologists, orthopedists and radiologists. DSM will present the positive effects of i-flex™ on human cartilage cells at another major forum for arthritis research, the Congress of the Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology, 23-27 September 2008, in Pacifico Yokohama, Japan.
About i-flex™
i-flex™ is backed by reliable scientific data gathered from several international scientific studies involving more than 400 participants. Studies have demonstrated that the unique rosehip powder used in i-flex™ is able to soothe joints and improve flexibility and mobility, with no known side effects. Over 80% of the participants in a placebo-controlled study reported joint health benefits, often in as little as three weeks.
About DSM Nutritional Products
DSM Nutritional Products is the world's leading supplier of vitamins, carotenoids and other fine chemicals to the feed, food, pharmaceutical and personal care industries. The business has sales of over EUR 2 billion and a long tradition as a pioneer in the discovery of new products, new formulations and attractive applications for all industry segments. For further company information please visit www.dsmnutritionalproducts.com.
DSM - the Life Sciences and Materials Sciences Company
Royal DSM N.V. creates innovative products and services in Life Sciences and Materials Sciences that contribute to the quality of life. DSM’s products and services are used globally in a wide range of markets and applications, supporting a healthier, more sustainable and more enjoyable way of life. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health, personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrics and electronics, life protection and housing. DSM has annual sales of almost EUR 8.8 billion and employs some 23,000 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations on five continents. DSM is listed on Euronext Amsterdam. More information on DSM: www.dsm.com.
i-flex™ is a registered trademark of Royal DSM N.V
Litozin™ is a registered trademark of Axellus
Forward-looking statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections of DSM and information currently available to the company. The statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and therefore DSM does not guarantee that its expectations will be realized. Furthermore, DSM has no obligation to update the statements contained in this press release. The English language version of the press release is leading.