UC-II (Undenatured Type II Collagen)

UC-II is a patented, standardized extract derived from chicken sternum cartilage, delivering undenatured (native) type II collagen as its primary bioactive compound. A typical serving dose is 40 mg per day, which is significantly lower than hydrolyzed collagen supplements (which are dosed at 5–10 g). At the 40 mg standardized dose: Undenatured Type II Collagen: 40 mg (standardized to contain approximately 25% type II collagen by weight, yielding ~10 mg active collagen per serving in some formulations; the key is the preservation of its native triple-helix 3D structure). Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs): Present as naturally occurring co-constituents within the cartilage matrix, including Chondroitin Sulfate (trace amounts, approximately 1–3 mg per 40 mg dose) and Hyaluronic Acid (trace amounts, <1 mg per 40 mg dose). These GAGs contribute to the mechanism of action. Protein content: Approximately 60–70% protein by dry weight of the extract, though the total protein per 40 mg dose is negligible from a macronutrient standpoint (~24–28 mg protein equivalent). Fat: Minimal, <1 mg per dose. Carbohydrates: Minimal, derived primarily from glycosaminoglycan sugar chains. Calories: Essentially negligible (<1 kcal per 40 mg dose). Bioavailability notes: The critical distinction of UC-II is that it is NOT hydrolyzed or denatured; it retains its native conformational epitopes, which are recognized by gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), specifically Peyer's patches in the small intestine. This oral tolerance mechanism drives its immunomodulatory effects at very low doses. Bioavailability in the traditional absorption sense is not the primary mechanism — instead, immune modulation via GALT interaction is the key pathway, meaning efficacy is achieved at 40 mg rather than gram-level doses required for hydrolyzed collagen. Contains no significant vitamins or minerals. Allergen note: Derived from chicken; contraindicated for poultry allergies.