In a step forward for scientific understanding behind the actions of glucosamine and chondroitin, scientists found the two supplements affect the activity of certain proteins involved in bone – the continuous process by which bone is broken down and replaced with new tissue.

Published in the journal Arthritis Research & Therapy, the research suggests chondroitin and glucosamine may slow arthritis-related bone loss, due to their impact upon the activity of cells breaking down bone.

For the study, researchers led by Dr. Steeve Kwan Tat of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre in Canada examined osteoblast cells taken from patients undergoing knee-joint replacement for severe knee arthritis. Some of the bone cells were exposed to chondroitin, glucosamine or a combination of the two.

The study concluded that the supplements, particularly when used in combination, affected osteoblast activity in a manner that may inhibit bone breakdown.

The results "provide interesting and insightful information about the mechanisms by which these drugs [supplements] exert positive effects on the osteoarthritis disease process," wrote the researchers.

Further research into this area will add to the growing body of evidence and promising initial results for joint disease sufferers.

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