Bioactive peptides derived from salmon were associated with reduced colon tissue injury in an animal model of acute colitis in a recent study appearing in Biomolecules. ProGo, from Hofseth BioCare, is a soluble protein hydrolysate (SPH) powder produced through a unique hydrolysis process to target immune and inflammatory factors in the gut.
 
The bioactive peptides in the SPH significantly reduced colon tissue injury in an acute colitis model by alleviating inflammatory cell infiltrates and oxidative stress, an underlying driver of many digestive conditions and diseases. According to the authors, the SPH had a potential immunomodulatory mechanism of action by upregulating antioxidant gene pathways including HMOX1.
 
According to Hofseth BioCare, prior research has demonstrated that SPH can upregulate gene systems which protect the GI tract against oxidative stress and inflammation. The most recent study presents evidence that ProGo is a viable ingredient in the gut health and immune support markets of the nutraceuticals space, the company reported.
 
“The peptides that constitute ProGo are proven to not only deliver nutritional benefits, such as collagen for skin health, but also a myriad of important health benefits, including antioxidant effects to support gut health and immunity and to sustain overall health,” said Dr. Crawford Currie, head of medical R&D at Hofseth BioCare. “This latest Stanford University study underpins ProGo’s reputation as a patented product possessing properties, claims, and health benefits unique to the market. Further clinical studies are in the pipeline to explore the efficacy of ProGo as a functional and targeted tool in IBD management and we look forward to discovering the full potential of this truly transformative innovation.”
 
ProGo was recently acknowledged by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a New Dietary Ingredient, and secured seven new structure function claims from the agency. These natural collagen peptides can now also claim to help “reduce wrinkles and promote skin smoothness,” “help with dry skin,” and “support skin health and appearance.”
 
Products containing the peptides can also claim to “act as an antioxidant,” “reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals,” and promote energy and overall health and well-being, according to Hofseth BioCare.