What is Perna Canaliculus? Perna canaliculus (Green-Lipped Mussel) is an edible species of shellfish from New Zealand that can be freeze-dried into a concentrated powder. It is rich in amino acids (building blocks that make up connective tissue), polypeptides, chelated minerals, fatty acids (essential for producing and rebuilding new cells), glycosaminoglycans (which make up the core of connective tissue), vitamins, and the nucleic acids RNA and DNA.
Perna contains all major classes of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) including chondroitin -4- and -6- sulfates that occur in connective tissue such as joint cartilage, tendons, ligaments and synovial fluid. GAGs are broken down and may not be replaced effectively due to age or metabolic status.
As dogs age, there may be an insufficient production of GAGs and proteoglycans (more complex structures containing GAGs), which can result in joint stress, thinning of the synovial fluid and accelerated breakdown of connective tissue. There are multiple components in Perna including long-chain unsaturated fatty acids, glycoproteins, glycosaminoglycans, protein complexes and polysaccharides, which are important in maintaining healthy connective tissues.
What Role do Amino Acids Play? Amino acids (essential and non-essential) support the growth and development of all body tissues. Branched-chain amino acids (valine, isoleucine and leucine) provide energy directly to muscle tissue.
What are Chelated Minerals and why are they Important? A chelated mineral is one that is attached to a protein molecule and thereby helps the body absorb the mineral effectively. Minerals like manganese and calcium are important to bone and joint health.
What Role do Fatty Acids Play? Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids support joint health, immune system function, skin health, and regulate metabolic functions and inflammatory processes.
What are GAGs and why are they Important? GAGs are the principle components of cartilage and synovial fluid found in the joint. They have been referred to as the "glue of life" as they help hold together connective tissues like collagen, tendons and ligaments. They are essential for maintaining the shock absorbency of joints.
What is Glucosamine? Glucosamine is an amino sugar produced in the body that provides a key building block for the synthesis of GAGs and proteoglycans. Glucosamine is found in the tissues of tendons, ligaments, cartilage, synovial fluid, skin, heart valves and the eye. Glucosamine has been shown to stimulate GAG synthesis in the cartilage matrix and synovial fluid. The body uses glucosamine to produce the GAGs, which then give shape, elasticity and rigidity to the aforementioned connective tissues as well as intervertebral discs, the interstitium and mucous membranes. A high level of GAGs enables the joints to hold more water thereby increasing flexibility, cushioning ability and resiliency. Glucosamine makes up 50 percent of hyaluronic acid- the principal GAG found in synovial fluid.
What is Methylsufonylmethane? MSM is a source of organic sulfur and can act as a building unit for sulfur-containing constituents. Sulfur is an essential mineral found in various compounds and structures in the body such as collagen, hormones and immunoglobulins (proteins with antibody activity). Sulfur, as part of MSM, helps the body maintain good cell membrane flexibility and permeability, which allows for the exchange of nutrients into and toxins out of the cell. It also is involved in the formation of collagen. MSM provides organic sulfur for amino acids used to create new cells. The concentration of organic sulfur in the body can be reduced through the normal aging process and stress.
What is Dimethylglycine? DMG is a versatile health-building factor that can help animals maintain a strong immune system. It is a natural amino acid found in the body. DMG supplies methyl groups for modification, building and detoxifying many constituents in the body. DMG can enhance physical and mental energy levels by reducing lactic acid build-up and increasing oxygen utilization in tissues. It acts as an antioxidant to protect the joints, and also helps with circulation in the joint and increases oxygen utilization.
