Anti-inflammatory Activity of an Oil Derived from Perna canaliculus (New Zealand Green-lipped Mussel).

Abstract

Background: There is considerable evidence that the New Zealand green-lipped mussel has beneficial effects for the treatment of chronic joint conditions through its anti-inflammatory activity. A new oil product based on an extract from the mussel has been prepared and its efficacy and possible mechanism of action for alleviating joint conditions investigated. Method: The effect of the oil on the production of superoxide by activating primary rat neutrophils in culture was measured. The dose-response effectiveness of it in reducing the inflammatory response in pristane-induced rheumatoid arthritis in rats was assessed. The results were statistically significant in both cases. Results: The oil was shown to suppress superoxide production by activated neutrophils by 32% even when diluted 4000 fold. When administered orally to rats it significantly inhibited the development of rheumatoid arthritis even at doses as low as 125 mg per kg of food. Conclusions: This oil has a potent effect on the production of superoxide by activated neutrophils and also is a strong inhibitor of rheumatoid arthritis in rats, probably through its antiinflammatory activity.