In vivo evidence for prostaglandin inhibitory activity in New Zealand green-lipped mussel extract

This study was the first to demonstrate that GLME inhibited prostaglandin production, providing compelling evidence for this as a primary mechanism of anti-inflammatory effect. Inhibition of prostaglandin production was demonstrated through delayed parturition in rats, a well-established scientific model for investigating effects on prostaglandin production.

Prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors (eg, aspirin, indomethacin and naproxen) interfere with ovulation and prolong the gestation period in the rat. These properties could provide a novel test bed for the assessment of agents with prostaglandin biosynthesis inhibitory activity.

Rats were fed green-lipped mussel extract and the effects on conception and the subsequent gestation period were determined. Parturition was delayed and fetal development was retarded in the Seatone-fed animals. The observations were consistent with the known effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, suggesting that Seatone does contain pharmacologically active material inhibiting prostaglandin biosynthesis.