| abstract |
The present invention relates to cartilage extracts and to a method of producing the same. Shark cartilage extracts having anti-angiogenic, anti-tumoral, anti-inflammatory and anti-collagenolytic activites have been obtained by an improved process. The process comprises the steps of obtaining a homogenate of cartilage in an aqueous solution, this homogenate being separated in a solid fraction (SOLID EXTRACT) and a liquid fraction which was further fractionated to obtain a LIQUID EXTRACT having molecules of a molecular weight comprised between 0 to 500 kDa. The composition of the liquid extract has then been investigated by different ways. Further fractionation of this extract led to the preliminary characterization of some of its active components. Due to the multiplicity of biological activities of the total liquid extract, it can be used for treating numerous diseases or conditions such as those having components selected from the group consisting of tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, inflammation and collagenolysis. Several cosmetic applications based on the capacity of the liquid extract to improve skin barrier function are also under the scope of this invention. These extracts have no offensive effect on normal body functions. Therefore, these shark cartilage extracts have a very promising therapeutic value. The process for the obtention of cartilage extracts is simple and efficient. The unexpectedly valuable products obtained by this process are therefore an indication of a new and non-obvious process. |