A study published in Cells (2025) has identified a new molecular mechanism by which Oligo Fucoidan—a marine polysaccharide supplied by Hi-Q Marine Biotech—attenuates the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). Notably, this finding provides the first evidence of fucoidan’s epigenetic regulation of miRNAs in IL-1β-induced articular cells, offering a new scientific foundation for its development as a nutraceutical ingredient for joint and mobility support.
Groundbreaking findings
Conducted by a research team at Taiwan’s National Defense Medical Center and Tri-Service General Hospital, the study used both human primary chondrocytes and synovial fibroblasts as well as a rat anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) osteoarthritis model.
Key discoveries include:
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Fucoidan reduces oxidative stress and catabolic enzyme production in IL-1β-stimulated joint cells, significantly lowering levels of iNOS, MMP-1, and MMP-3.
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It suppresses activation of the NF-κB and MAPK signaling cascades, which are central to inflammation and cartilage breakdown.
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It reactivates the Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant pathway, restoring cellular redox balance and promoting tissue resilience.
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Crucially, fucoidan downregulates microRNA-22 (miR-22), a molecule known to accelerate OA progression, while increasing HO-1 expression, thereby protecting cartilage integrity through the miR-22/HO-1 axis.
In the in-vivo ACLT model, oral administration of fucoidan (100 mg/kg) significantly reduced cartilage erosion and OARSI scores, confirming its chondroprotective effects.
Applications in nutraceutical industry
These findings expand fucoidan’s application potential beyond immune and metabolic wellness into joint and mobility support.
For B2B innovators, Hi-Q’s Oligo-Fucoidan offers a naturally derived bioactive suitable for:
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Joint-care supplements targeting oxidative and inflammatory stress.
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Functional beverages and ready-to-drink formulations promoting cartilage longevity.
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Synergistic blends with collagen, glucosamine, MSM, or omega-3 to enhance joint protection and market differentiation.
The study’s demonstration of epigenetic modulation through miR-22 suppression also introduces a new scientific narrative—fucoidan as an “epigenetic nutraceutical” that supports healthy aging and tissue resilience.
Full article:
Hsieh, T.-H.; Ho, J.-Y.; Wang, C.-C.; Liu, F.-C.; Lee, C.-H.; Lee, H.-S.; Peng, Y.-J. Fucoidan modulates osteoarthritis progression through miR-22/HO-1 pathway. Cells 2025, 14, 1208. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14151208
