Study highlights of Mythocondro® (now MyCondro®)
A new clinical study with Mythocondro® shows that low-dose supplementation with this non-animal chondroitin sulfate (CS) reduced knee discomfort in obese subjects with moderate knee osteoarthritis, positioning it as a promising option in the study setting.
Produced through a patented biotransformation process, Mythocondro® is the first non-animal chondroitin sulfate and a high-purity alternative to bovine-sourced CS for product developers and brands in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and functional food & beverage markets seeking clinically validated joint-health ingredients. It is used as a dietary supplement ingredient to support joint health.
The study was specifically designed to associate Mythocondro® supplementation at a low dose (600 mg per day) with supervised physical activity after 2 and 8 weeks (15-minute cycling workout).
The results confirm efficacy across all joint-health parameters, including inflammation, pain, and knee function (WOMAC Index), in line with reported CS activity. Mythocondro supplementation also resulted in weight loss, and notable reductions in body mass index (BMI), C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels significantly, total cholesterol, Homeostatic Model Assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT).
While the decreases in WOMAC and CRP levels had already been described in a previous clinical trial, the reduction in BMI, total cholesterol, and HOMA observed here in Mythocondro supplementation was never seen in human chondroitin sulfate trials before, and this human evidence is consistent with Mythocondro® showing 43% higher bioavailability than bovine CS and maintaining 89% higher plasmatic concentration than bovine CS after 5 hours. Even if this result is likely primarily related to increased daily physical activity, which itself is probably due to reduced inflammation, it may also highlight the effect of Mythocondro® supplementation on metabolism.
The decrease in the WOMAC score indicates reduced pain and improved joint function. The significant reduction in CRP levels indicates improved systemic inflammation, consistent with findings reported for CS.
About Mythocondro®
Mythocondro® is the first non-animal chondroitin sulfate, suitable for vegetarians. Thanks to a fermentation-based manufacturing process, it provides a reliable and reproducible source of chondroitin while enhancing bioavailability. This approach avoids animal-derived raw materials and animal-derived CS. Mythocondro® offers a high-quality and purity profile of chondroitin, with a more consistent profile than bovine-sourced chondroitin sulfate, making it a natural option suitable for use in food supplements. Its clear production origin helps avoid concerns tied to adulterations typical of animal-derived raw materials. In the market, it stands out as a vegetarian alternative to animal chondroitin. In 2025, Gnosis by Lesaffre rebranded Mythocondro® as MyCondro®.
Deep dive into non-animal chondroitin sulfate
Chondroitin is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found in the cartilage, bones, and connective tissues of the human body. Chondroitin sulfate, or CS, is commonly used in joint-support supplements as people age. As joint concerns become more common with age, demand has also grown for non-animal options in this category. It is a key structural component of cartilage, providing cushioning and lubrication for the joints.
