METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS USEFUL
FOR IMPROVING BONE AND JOINT HEALTH
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/682,906, filed August 14, 2012, the entire content of which is incorporated
by reference herein.
FIELD
[0002] The general inventive concepts relate to methods and compositions for improving bone
health, joint health, or both in an individual in need thereof. More particularly, the general
inventive concepts relate to methods and compositions including a combination of Curcumin and
Vitamin K2 for improving bone health, joint health, or both in an individual in need thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Millions of individuals suffer damage to joint and bone tissues, either from the normal
bumps and bruises of everyday life, or as a result of various diseases and related conditions.
Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteopenia, and osteoporosis generally represent the most
prevalent diseases influencing both bone health and joint health, although other diseases may
also present problems in this area. Furthermore, other diseases not generally associated with
bone health or joint health, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), may affect bones or
joint structure and function. As the population continues to age, the number of individuals
having bone and joint issues will undoubtedly continue to increase.
[0004] Recently, the Surgeon General reported that over 1.5 million osteoporotic fractures
occur in the United States each year, leading to more than 500,000 hospitalizations, over 800,000
emergency room encounters, more than 2.6 million physician office visits, and the placement of
nearly 180,000 individuals into nursing homes. These fractures are not only self-limiting and in
some instances, debilitating, to the individual, but caring for these fractures is expensive and may
require long term care.
[0005] Moreover, many conditions of impaired bone health or joint health are, or become,
chronic in nature, thereby necessitating long term therapies. As such, there is a continuing need
for a long term, safe means of effectively improving bone health, joint health, or both in
individuals.
SUMMARY
[0006] The general inventive concepts relate to methods and compositions for improving bone
health, joint health, or both in an individual in need thereof. By way of example to illustrate
various aspects of the general inventive concepts, several exemplary embodiments of methods
and compositions (e.g. , nutritional compositions) are provided herein.
[0007] In one exemplary embodiment, a composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2
for use in treating or preventing osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE), osteopenia, or osteoporosis in an individual in need thereof is provided.
Use of the composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2 may inhibit one or more of
osteoclast differentiation, collagen degradation, and bone resorption. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition is a nutritional composition.
[0008] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2
for use in treating or preventing osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, osteopenia, or
osteoporosis in an individual in need thereof comprises about 0.001% to about 3.4% of
Curcumin by weight of the composition and about 0.0001% to about 0.1% of Vitamin K2 by
weight of the composition.
[0009] In exemplary embodiments as described herein, an effective amount of each of the
components of the composition may be provided. For example, the composition may comprise
about 0.001% to about 3.4% of Curcumin by weight of the composition and about 0.000 1% to
about 0.1% of Vitamin K2 by weight of the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the
Curcumin is provided as bioavailable Curcumin and the Vitamin K2 is menaquinone-7.
[0010] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition further comprises Vitamin D3 and
calcium. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprises, per serving or dose, about
160 IU to about 1,000 IU of Vitamin D3 and about 150 mg to about 800 mg of calcium.
[001 1] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition further comprises one or more of at
least one source of protein, at least one source of carbohydrate, and at least one source of fat. In
one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprises about 1% to about 30% of at least one
source of protein by weight of the composition, about 10%> to about 80%> of at least one source of
carbohydrate by weight of the composition, and about 0.5%> to about 30%> of at least one source
of fat by weight of the composition.
[0012] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition is a liquid nutritional product. In one
exemplary embodiment, the composition is a reconstitutable powder. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition is a solid nutritional product.
[0013] In one exemplary embodiment, a nutritional composition for improving bone health,
joint health, or both in an individual in need thereof is provided. The nutritional composition
comprises: about 1% to about 30%> of at least one source of protein by weight of the
composition; about 0.00 1% to about 3.4% of Curcumin by weight of the composition; and about
0.0001% to about 0.1% of Vitamin K2 by weight of the composition.
[0014] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition further comprises, per
serving or dose, about 160 IU to about 1,000 IU of Vitamin D3 and about 150 mg to about 1,000
mg of calcium.
[0015] In one exemplary embodiment, a composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2
for use in improving bone health, joint health, or both in an individual in need thereof is
provided. Use of the composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2 may inhibit one or
more of osteoclast differentiation, collagen degradation, and bone resorption to thereby improve
bone health, joint health, or both in the individual. In one exemplary embodiment, the
composition is a nutritional composition.
[0016] In one exemplary embodiment, a method for maintaining bone quality in an individual
in need thereof is provided. The method includes administering to the individual in need thereof
a nutritional composition comprising at least one source of protein in an amount sufficient to
provide 5 grams to 50 grams of protein per serving, Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and
calcium. Upon consumption of the nutritional composition, the bone quality of the individual in
need thereof is maintained.
[0017] In one exemplary embodiment, a method for reducing bone loss in an individual in need
thereof is provided. The method includes administering to the individual in need thereof a
nutritional composition comprising at least one source of protein in an amount sufficient to
provide 5 grams to 50 grams of protein per serving, Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and
calcium. Upon consumption of the nutritional composition, the bone loss of the individual in
need thereof is reduced.
[0018] In one exemplary embodiment, a method of inhibiting osteoclast differentiation in an
individual in need thereof is provided. The method comprises administering to the individual in
need thereof a composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition is a nutritional composition.
[0019] In one exemplary embodiment, a method of inhibiting collagen degradation in an
individual in need thereof is provided. The method comprises administering to the individual in
need thereof a composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition is a nutritional composition.
[0020] In one exemplary embodiment, a method of inhibiting bone resorption in an individual
in need thereof is provided. The method comprises administering to the individual in need
thereof a composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2. In one exemplary embodiment,
the composition is a nutritional composition.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0021] FIG. 1 depicts a bar graph representing the relative differentiation of osteoclast
precursors as evaluated in Example 1.
[0022] FIG. 2 depicts a bar graph representing the relative percentage inhibition of bone
resorption by osteoclasts as evaluated in Example 2.
[0023] FIG. 3 depicts the maximal load (in Newtons) measured by 3-point bending of rat dam
femurs 8 weeks after ovariectomization (Ovx) and nutritional intervention as evaluated in
Example 11.
[0024] FIG. 4 depicts the ultimate load to failure (in Newtons) measured by 3-point bending of
rat dam femurs 8 weeks after ovariectomization (Ovx) and nutritional intervention as evaluated
in Example 11.
[0025] FIG. 5 depicts a bar graph representing the bone mineral density (BMD) measured by
dual energy X-Ray absorptiometry (DXA) of rat dam lumbar vertebrae (L4-L5) before
ovariectomization (Ovx) and 8 weeks after Ovx and nutritional intervention as evaluated in
Example 11.
[0026] FIG. 6 depicts a bar graph representing the bone mineral density (BMD) measured by
micro-CT (ex vivo) of rat dam femurs and lumbar vertebra (L5) 8 weeks after ovariectomization
(Ovx) and nutritional intervention as evaluated in Example 11.
[0027] FIG. 7 depicts a bar graph representing the scores of certain components of the
Modified Mankin's scoring system for assessing joint degradation of rat dam knee joints 8 weeks
after ovariectomization (Ovx) and anterior cruciate ligament tear (ACLT) surgery and 9 weeks of
nutritional intervention as evaluated in Example 12.
[0028] FIG. 8 depicts a bar graph representing the total score of the Modified Mankin's scoring
system for assessing joint degradation of rat dam knee joints 8 weeks after ovariectomization
(Ovx) and anterior cruciate ligament tear (ACLT) surgery and 9 weeks of nutritional intervention
as evaluated in Example 12.
[0029] FIG. 9 depicts histology images of knee joints 8 weeks after ovariectomization (Ovx)
and anterior cruciate ligament tear (ACLT) surgery and after 9 weeks of nutritional intervention
as evaluated in Example 12, with the images shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B being representative of
rat dams administered vehicle, calcium, and Vitamin D3, and the images shown in FIGS. 9C and
9D being representative of rat dams administered Curcumin, Vitamin K2, calcium, and Vitamin
D3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0030] While the general inventive concepts are susceptible of embodiment in many different
forms, described herein in detail are specific embodiments thereof with the understanding that
the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the general
inventive concepts. Accordingly, the general inventive concepts are not intended to be limited to
the specific embodiments illustrated and described herein.
[0031] The general inventive concepts described herein generally relate to methods and
compositions for improving bone health, joint health, or both in an individual through the
supplementation of the individual's diet with a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2. The
exemplary methods and compositions described herein may be useful in treating or preventing
diseases and conditions that affect bone health, joint health, or both, such as, for example,
osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. The exemplary methods and
compositions described herein may be useful for inhibiting one or more of osteoclast
differentiation, collagen degradation, and bone resorption to thereby provide effective treatment
for diseases and conditions that affect bone health, joint health, or both. The exemplary methods
and compositions described herein may be useful in maintaining bone quality, reducing bone
loss, or both in an individual in need thereof. Accordingly, the exemplary methods and
compositions described herein may be useful in improving the overall bone health, joint health,
or both in an individual.
[0032] The terminology as set forth herein is for description of the exemplary embodiments
only and should not be construed as limiting the disclosure as a whole. Unless otherwise
specified, "a," "an," "the," and "at least one" are used interchangeably. Furthermore, as used in
the description and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are inclusive of
their plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Additionally, recitations of
numerical ranges by endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5
includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5). As used herein, the term "about," when preceding a
numerical value or range includes the exact numerical value or range recited, as well as values
within 10% above or below the recited numerical value or range.
[0033] The terms "nutritional product" and "nutritional composition," as used herein, are used
interchangeably and, unless otherwise specified, refer to nutritional liquids, nutritional powders,
nutritional bars, nutritional supplements, and any other nutritional product as known in the art.
The nutritional powders may be reconstituted to form a nutritional liquid. The nutritional
product or nutritional composition may include one or more of at least one source of protein, at
least one source of carbohydrate, and at least one source of fat, and is suitable for oral
consumption by a human.
[0034] The terms "nutritional liquid" and "liquid nutritional product," as used herein, unless
otherwise specified, refer to a nutritional composition in ready-to-drink liquid form, concentrated
form, and a nutritional liquid made by reconstituting a nutritional powder prior to use.
[0035] The terms "nutritional powder" an "reconstitutable powder," as used herein, unless
otherwise specified, refer to a nutritional composition in flowable or scoopable form that can be
reconstituted with water or another aqueous liquid prior to consumption and include both spray
dried and dry mixed/dry blended powders.
[0036] The term "nutritional semi-solid," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a
nutritional composition that is intermediate in properties, such as rigidity, between solid and
liquid. Some semi-solid examples include, but are not limited to, puddings, yogurts, gels,
gelatins, and doughs.
[0037] The term "nutritional semi-liquid," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to
a nutritional composition that is intermediate in properties, such as flow properties, between
liquid and solid. Some semi-liquid examples include, but are not limited to, thick shakes, liquid
yogurts, and liquid gels.
[0038] The term "Curcumin," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to Curcumin,
bioavailable Curcumin, and derivatives and analogs thereof.
[0039] The term "bioavailable," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to the ability
of a compound to enter into and remain in the bloodstream of an individual such that the
substance can be absorbed into cells in the body. As the degree of bioavailability of a compound
increases, the compound becomes more likely to enter into and remain in the bloodstream where
it can be absorbed and used by the body. As the degree of bioavailability of a compound
decreases, the compound becomes more likely to go directly into the gastrointestinal area and be
expelled from the body before entering the bloodstream.
[0040] The term "effective amount," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a
sufficient amount of a composition or an agent (e.g., Curcumin, Vitamin K2) to facilitate a
desired therapeutic effect (e.g., maintain or improve bone health, joint health, or both) in an
individual. The exact amount required will vary from individual to individual, for example,
based on the species, age, weight, lifestyle and general condition of the particular individual.
[0041] The term "bone quality," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to
characteristics that provide an indication of bone health. For example, bone quality includes
characteristics such as bone mineral density (BMD), bone strength, bone mineral content (BMC),
bone microarchitecture, accumulated microscopic damage, bone turnover, and so forth.
[0042] The term "administering," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, should be
understood to include providing a composition to an individual, the act of consuming the
composition by the individual, and combinations thereof.
[0043] The term "serving," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, is intended to be
construed as any amount which is intended to be consumed by an individual in one sitting or
within one hour or less. In one exemplary embodiment, a serving of a nutritional powder is
about 40 grams of nutritional powder, which may be reconstituted with, for example, 8 f oz ( 1
cup) of a suitable liquid (e.g., water, milk).
[0044] The term "individual," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a mammal
including companion animals, livestock, laboratory animals, working animals, sport animals, and
humans. In certain exemplary embodiments, the individual is a human.
[0045] The term "elderly," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a human of at
least 45 years of age, including at least 50 years of age, at least 55 years of age, at least 60 years
of age, at least 65 years of age, at least 70 years of age, at least 75 years of age, and including at
least 80 years of age or greater. The term "elderly" also includes humans of 45 years of age to
100 years of age, and humans of 55 years of age to 80 years of age.
[0046] The term "individual in need thereof," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers
to an individual diagnosed as having, or exhibiting symptoms associated with, one or more of
osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, osteopenia, and rheumatoid arthritis. In certain exemplary
embodiments, the individual in need thereof has degenerated cartilage in one or both knees. In
certain exemplary embodiments, the individual in need thereof is diagnosed as having, or
exhibiting symptoms associated with, low-grade inflammation. In certain exemplary
embodiments, the individual in need thereof is a menopausal or postmenopausal woman. In
certain exemplary embodiments, the individual in need thereof is estrogen deficient. In certain
exemplary embodiments, the individual in need thereof is an elderly human.
[0047] The terms "susceptible" and "at risk," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, mean
having little resistance to a certain condition or disease (e.g., osteoporosis, osteoarthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis), including one or more of being genetically predisposed to the condition or
disease, having a family history of the condition or disease, and having symptoms of the
condition or disease or a precursor thereof.
[0048] The term "shelf stable," as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a
nutritional liquid that remains commercially stable after being packaged and contained within a
hermetically sealed container and then stored at 18-24° C for at least 3 months, including about 6
months to about 24 months, and also including about 12 months to about 18 months.
[0049] All percentages, parts, and ratios, as used herein, are by weight of the total composition,
unless otherwise specified. All such weights as they pertain to listed ingredients are based on the
active level and, therefore, do not include solvents or by-products that may be included in
commercially available materials, unless otherwise specified.
[0050] All references to singular characteristics or limitations of the present disclosure shall
include the corresponding plural characteristic or limitation, and vice versa, unless otherwise
specified or clearly implied to the contrary by the context in which the reference is made.
[0051] All combinations of method or process steps as used herein can be performed in any
order, unless otherwise specified or clearly implied to the contrary by the context in which the
referenced combination is made.
[0052] The various exemplary compositions described herein may also be substantially free of
any optional or selected essential ingredient or feature described herein, provided that the
composition still contains all of the required ingredients or features as described herein. In this
context, and unless otherwise specified, the term "substantially free" means that the selected
composition contains less than a functional amount of the optional or selected ingredient,
typically less than 0.5%, including less than 0.25%>, including less than 0.1%, and also including
zero percent, by weight, of such optional or selected ingredient.
[0053] The exemplary methods may use and the exemplary compositions may comprise,
consist of, or consist essentially of the elements of the compositions as described herein, as well
as any additional or optional element described herein or otherwise known (now or in the future)
to be useful in certain exemplary applications.
[0054] Methods and nutritional compositions for improving bone health, joint health, or both
are provided herein. The exemplary methods described herein include administering a
composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2 to an individual in need thereof. In one
exemplary embodiment, the method includes administering a composition comprising an
effective amount of Curcumin and an effective amount of Vitamin K2 to an individual in need
thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, the compositions comprise an effective amount of
Curcumin and an effective amount of Vitamin K2. As will be explained in more detail below,
the inventors discovered that fortifying an individual's diet with a combination of Curcumin and
Vitamin K2 can result in improved bone health, bone strength, and joint health. Particularly, the
combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 has been found to synergistically inhibit osteoclast
differentiation, and consequently collagen degradation, such that overall bone health is
improved. Further, the combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 has been found to be effective
in suppressing bone resorption, increasing bone mineral density, and increasing bone strength.
Accordingly, the combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 may be effective for treating,
reducing symptoms of, or controlling diseases and conditions associated with or that otherwise
affect bone health, joint health, or both including, but not limited to, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid
arthritis, SLE, osteopenia, and osteoporosis.
[0055] The exemplary methods and compositions described herein offer individuals in need of
improved bone health, joint health, or both a simple and effective means for improving overall
bone health and joint health. The features of the exemplary methods and compositions, as well
as some of the many optional variations and additions, are described in more detail hereafter.
Product Form
[0056] The exemplary compositions described herein may be formulated and administered in
any known or otherwise suitable oral product form. Any solid, semi-solid, liquid, semi-liquid, or
powder form, including combinations or variations thereof, are suitable for use herein, provided
that such forms allow for safe and effective oral delivery to the individual of the exemplary
compositions as described herein. The exemplary compositions may be formulated to include
only the essential ingredients described herein, or may be modified with optional ingredients to
form a number of different product formulations.
[0057] As previously discussed, the exemplary compositions described herein comprise
Curcumin and Vitamin K2. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprises an
effective amount of Curcumin and an effective amount of Vitamin K2. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2 comprises about 0.001% to
about 3 .4% of Curcumin by weight of the composition and about 0.0001%> to about 0.1%> of
Vitamin K2 by weight of the composition.
[0058] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin
and Vitamin K2 is a nutritional composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional
composition comprising a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 further comprises one or
more of at least one source of protein, at least one source of carbohydrate, and at least one source
of fat. In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition comprising a combination of
Curcumin and Vitamin K2 and one or more of at least one source of protein, at least one source
of carbohydrate, and at least one source of fat may further comprise vitamins, minerals, or
combinations thereof.
[0059] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition comprises about 1% to
about 30% of at least one source of protein by weight of the composition, about 0.001% to about
3.4% of Curcumin by weight of the composition, and about 0.0001% to about 0.1% of Vitamin
K2 by weight of the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition
further comprises, per serving or dose, about 160 IU to about 1,000 IU of Vitamin D3 and about
150 milligrams to about 1,000 milligrams of calcium. In one exemplary embodiment, the
Curcumin is provided as bioavailable Curcumin and the Vitamin K2 is menaquinone-7.
[0060] The exemplary nutritional compositions may be formulated with sufficient kinds and
amounts of nutrients to provide a sole, primary, or supplemental source of nutrition, or to provide
a specialized nutritional composition, including specialized nutrition to individuals in need of
bone health improvement, joint health improvement, or both. In certain exemplary
embodiments, the nutritional composition provides up to 500 kcal of energy per serving,
including about 20 kcal to about 500 kcal, about 75 kcal to about 500 kcal, about 150 kcal to
about 500 kcal, about 200 kcal to about 500 kcal, about 300 kcal to about 500 kcal, about 350
kcal to about 500 kcal, or about 400 kcal to about 500 kcal per serving.
Nutritional Solids
[0061] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin
and Vitamin K2 is formulated as a solid nutritional product. Exemplary forms of the solid
nutritional product include, but are not limited to, tablets; pellets; extruded solids; snack and
meal replacement products, including those formulated as bars, sticks, or baked goods such as
cookies, breads, or cakes; frozen liquids; candy; breakfast cereals; powders, granulated solids, or
other particulates; snack chips or bites; frozen or retorted entrees; and so forth. In one exemplary
embodiment, when the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 is
formulated as a solid nutritional product, the serving is within a range of 25 grams to 150 grams.
In one exemplary embodiment, when the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin
and Vitamin K2 is formulated as a solid nutritional product, the individual is administered one to
four servings per day of the solid nutritional product.
Nutritional Powders
[0062] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin
and Vitamin K2 is formulated as a reconstitutable powder. Exemplary reconstitutable powders
may be spray dried, agglomerated, or dryblended powder compositions. Such exemplary
reconstitutable powders generally can be easily scooped and measured with a spoon or similar
device, wherein the powder can be easily reconstituted by the intended user with a suitable
aqueous liquid, such as water or milk, to form a nutritional composition for immediate oral or
enteral use. In this context, "immediate use" generally means within about 48 hours, most
typically within about 24 hours, preferably right after reconstitution. The quantity of a
reconstitutable powder required to produce a volume suitable for one serving can vary. In
certain exemplary embodiments, a serving of the reconstitutable powder ranges from about 25
grams to about 50 grams, including about 30 grams to about 45 grams, and also including about
35 grams to about 40 grams.
Nutritional Liquids
[0063] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin
and Vitamin K2 is formulated as a liquid nutritional product. Exemplary forms of the liquid
nutritional product include, but are not limited to, concentrated and ready-to-feed nutritional
liquids, snack, and meal replacement products; hot or cold beverages; carbonated or noncarbonated
beverages; juices or other acidified beverages; milk or soy-based beverages; shakes;
coffees; teas; and so forth. Typically, the liquid nutritional product is formulated as a
suspension, an emulsion, or a clear or substantially clear liquid.
[0064] Exemplary nutritional emulsions suitable for use may be aqueous emulsions comprising
protein, carbohydrate, and fat. These emulsions are generally flowable or drinkable liquids at
about 1°C to about 25°C and are typically in the form of oil-in-water, water-in-oil, or complex
aqueous emulsions, although such emulsions are typically in the form of oil-in-water emulsions
having a continuous aqueous phase and a discontinuous oil phase.
[0065] The exemplary nutritional emulsions may be, and typically are, shelf stable. The
exemplary nutritional emulsions typically contain up to 95% by weight of water, including about
50% to about 95%o, also including about 60%> to about 90%>, and also including about 70%> to
about 85%, of water by weight of the nutritional emulsions. The exemplary nutritional
emulsions may have a variety of product densities, but typically have a density greater than 1.03
g/ml, including greater than 1.04 g/ml, and including greater than 1.055 g/ml; or a density
between about 1.06 g/ml and about 1.12 g/ml, and also including between about 1.085 g/ml and
about 1.10 g/ml.
[0066] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional emulsion may have a pH between about
3.5 and about 8, and more advantageously between about 4.5 and about 7.5, including about 5.5
to about 7.3, and including about 6.2 to about 7.
[0067] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition is a nutritional liquid formulated as a
clear liquid having a pH of about 2 to about 6, and also having no more than 0.5% fat by weight
of the composition. The limited amount of fat contributes to the desired clarity and pH of the
clear nutritional liquid. Typically, liquid nutritional compositions desired to be clear, or at least
considerably translucent, are substantially free of fat. As used herein "substantially free of fat"
refers to a nutritional composition containing less than 0.5%, including less than 0.1%, fat by
weight of the composition. "Substantially free of fat" also may refer to an exemplary nutritional
composition disclosed herein that contains no fat, i.e., zero fat. Furthermore, exemplary
embodiments of nutritional liquids that have an acidic pH in the range of about 2 to about 6 {e.g. ,
juices, fruit juices, fruit-flavored beverages) are typically substantially free of fat. Typically,
nutritional liquids that are both clear and have a pH between about 2 to about 6 are also typically
substantially free of fat. In certain exemplary embodiments, the pH of the nutritional liquid may
be between 2.5 and 4.6, including between 3 and 3.5. In certain exemplary embodiments, where
the nutritional liquid is substantially free of fat but has some amount of fat present, the fat may
be present as a result of being inherently present in another ingredient {e.g., a source of protein)
or may be present as a result of being added as one or more separate sources of fat. Additionally,
in certain exemplary embodiments where the composition is a nutritional liquid having a pH of
about 2 to about 6, certain protein sources are more or less suitable for use in formulating the
nutritional liquid. For example, whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, whey protein
hydrolysate, hydrolyzed casein, hydrolyzed soy protein, hydrolyzed pea protein, and
commercially available soluble soy protein isolates are generally more suitable for use in
nutritional liquids having a pH of about 2 to about 6.
[0068] In certain exemplary embodiments, when the composition comprising a combination of
Curcumin and Vitamin K2 is formulated as a liquid nutritional product, a serving thereof may be
within a range of about 30 milliliters to about 500 milliliters (~1 fl oz to ~17 fl oz). In certain
exemplary embodiments, when the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin and
Vitamin K2 is formulated as a liquid nutritional product, a serving thereof may be about 237
milliliters (~8 fl oz). In certain other exemplary embodiments, when the composition comprising
a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 is formulated as a liquid nutritional product, a
serving thereof may be within a range of about 150 milliliters to about 500 milliliters (~5 fl oz to
—17 fl oz), within a range of about 177 milliliters to about 417 milliliters (~6 f oz to ~14 fl oz),
or within a range of about 207 milliliters to about 296 milliliters (~7 fl oz to ~10 fl oz). In still
other exemplary embodiments, when the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin
and Vitamin K2 is formulated as a liquid nutritional product, a serving thereof may be within a
range of about 30 milliliters to about 75 milliliters (~1 fl oz to ~ 2.5 fl oz). In certain exemplary
embodiments, when the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 is
formulated as a liquid nutritional product, the individual is administered one to four servings per
day of the liquid nutritional product.
Curcumin
[0069] As used herein, the term "Curcumin" includes isolated Curcumin or analogues or
derivatives thereof, as described herein, or any combinations thereof. Curcumin also refers to
the compound having a systematic name of (lE,6E)-l,7-bis (4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-l,6-
heptadiene-3,5-dione and having the formula:
Curcumin is the principal Curcuminoid of turmeric. In addition to the keto form shown above,
Curcumin may also be in enol form. Other naturally occurring Curcuminoids of turmeric include
bis-demethoxyCurcumin (one methoxy group removed from Curcumin structure) and
demethoxyCurcumin (both methoxy groups removed from Curcumin structure). Curcumin is a
polyphenol and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
[0070] Conventionally, in some cases Curcumin has suffered lower bioavailability when taken
orally, and thus when formulated at higher concentrations to counter its inherent poor
bioavailability to achieve the desired systemic delivery, the products to which Curcumin is added
may often take on an intense, undesirable yellow color. The term "Curcumin," as used herein,
includes Curcumin that has been formulated as "bioavailable Curcumin," which may exhibit an
improved bioavailability as compared to conventionally used Curcumin. As such, Curcumin
formulated as bioavailable Curcumin can be utilized at lower concentrations in the exemplary
methods and compositions described herein, while still maintaining its bone health and joint
health promoting activity.
[0071] The term "bioavailable Curcumin" may refer to Curcumin and derivatives and analogs
thereof, including natural and synthetic derivatives of Curcumin, as well as any combination of
one or more of Curcumin, a Curcumin derivative, and a Curcumin analog that has been
processed or otherwise manipulated to improve the biovailability thereof. In particular, in one
exemplary embodiment, the term "bioavailable Curcumin" may encompass compounds having a
1,7-bis (4-hydroxyphenyl)-l,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione skeleton, or a l,7-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)
hept-4-en-3-one skeleton, wherein the phenyl groups independently may bear one or more
alkoxy residues, especially one methoxy residue in the 3-position. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition comprising a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 may
further comprise additional Curcuminoids, such as demethoxyCurcumin and
bisdemethoxyCurcumin. In one exemplary embodiment, when the composition further
comprises demethoxyCurcumin, bisdemethoxyCurcumin, or both, the demethoxyCurcumin or
bisdemethoxyCurcumin may be present as part of a complex with Curcumin.
[0072] The "bioavailable Curcumin" used in certain exemplary compositions herein shows
improved oral bioavailability as compared to "non-bioavailable Curcumin." The term "nonbioavailable
Curcumin," as used herein, refers to Curcumin that has not been processed or
otherwise manipulated in an effort to improve the bioavailability thereof, and does not mean that
the Curcumin has no bioavailability. The oral bioavailability can be determined in experiments
involving oral administration of the bioavailable Curcumin (and administration of a
corresponding amount of non-bioavailable Curcumin) to an individual and measuring the level of
Curcumin in a biological sample obtained from the individual over time, wherein the biological
sample may be derived from a body fluid, for example, serum, plasma, whole blood, or
cerebrospinal fluid, or from a tissue (e.g., brain, liver, kidney, or heart). For analysis, the
Curcumin level in the examined body fluid or tissue may be plotted against time, and the area
under the curve (AUC), for example, the total area under the curve from t = 0 (time of
administration) to t = infinity (AUCO-infinity), or the area under the curve within a defined
period (e.g. from t = 0 to t = 6 hours (AUC0-6H)) may be calculated. In general, a higher AUC
relative to the AUC obtained by administration of non-bioavailable Curcumin indicates an
improved bioavailability. The absolute bioavailability may be calculated from the resulting
AUC data as a percentage based on the corresponding AUC data obtained from intravenous
administration of Curcumin.
[0073] In one exemplary embodiment, the amount of Curcumin in the blood, determined as
AUC0-6H after a single oral administration to a human or an animal subject, such as a rat, of a
dose or serving of a composition containing bioavailable Curcumin corresponding to 20
milligrams of total Curcumin is significantly higher than after oral administration of the same
amount of non-bioavailable Curcumin in the composition, including at least 2 times higher, at
least 3 times higher, at least 4 times higher, at least 6 times higher, at least 8 times higher, at least
10 times higher, or at least 15 times higher, and, for example, up to 30 times higher.
[0074] As used herein, the amount of Curcumin in the blood being "significantly higher"
means a statistically significant increase of this parameter in individuals after oral administration
of 20 milligrams of bioavailable Curcumin in the exemplary compositions described herein as
compared to the control 20 milligrams of non-bioavailable Curcumin. A statistical test known in
the art, such as ANOVA or Student's t-test, may be used to determine the significance of this
difference, wherein the p-value is at least <0.1, <0.5, <0.01, <0.005, <0.001 or <0.0001.
[0075] Curcumin can be prepared in a number of ways including, for example, using Meltrex®
or similar melt-extrusion technology to prepare extruded solids and improve the bioavailability
of the Curcumin as compared to Curcumin not produced by melt extrusion. Meltrex® or similar
melt-extrusion technology methods are known in the art and can be applied to produce
bioavailable Curcumin by one skilled in the art based on the disclosure herein. Accordingly, in
one exemplary embodiment, the Curcumin used in the composition is melt-extruded Curcumin.
[0076] The term "melt-extruded Curcumin" as used herein refers to a melt-processed solid
dispersion product comprising (a) one or more Curcuminoids, (b) a nutritionally acceptable
thermoplastic polymer, and (c) a phosphatide.
[0077] The term "Curcuminoid," as used herein, refers to Curcumin and derivatives thereof
and analogs thereof, such as demethoxyCurcumin and bisdemethoxyCurcumin. These include
natural and synthetic derivatives of Curcumin, and any combination of more than one
Curcuminoid. In particular, for purposes herein, the term "Curcuminoid" may encompass
compounds having a l,7-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-l,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione skeleton, or a l,7-bis(4-
hydroxyphenyl) hept-4-en-3-one skeleton, wherein the phenyl groups independently may bear
one or more alkoxy residues, especially one methoxy residue in the 3-position. An example of a
suitable commercially available source of a mixture of Curcuminoids is "Curcumin C3
Complex®," available from Sabinsa Corporation (East Windsor, NJ).
[0078] The term "nutritionally acceptable," as used herein, refers to a compound that does not
cause acute toxicity when it is ingested or administered orally. All components of the meltextruded
Curcumin are nutritionally acceptable.
[0079] The nutritionally acceptable thermoplastic polymer used in the melt-extruded Curcumin
described herein is a polymer capable of acting as a solid meltable solvent. It forms a matrix for
dispersion, and in particular for dissolution, of the Curcuminoid. In some embodiments, the
polymer is at least partly soluble or swellable in aqueous media, expediently under the conditions
of use, and in particular under physiological conditions in the digestive tract. In an exemplary
embodiment, the nutritionally acceptable thermoplastic polymer is a water-soluble polymer.
[0080] A wide range of nutritionally acceptable thermoplastic polymers may be utilized. For
example, suitable nutritionally acceptable thermoplastic polymers include, but are not limited to,
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (Methocel™, Pharmacoat™), polymethacrylate (Eudragit™ EO),
hydroxypropylcellulose (Klucel™), a polyvidone, or combinations thereof.
[0081] The term "phosphatide," as used herein, refers to compounds which are derivatives of
glycero-3 phosporic acid that contain at least one O-acyl, O-alkyl or O-alk-l'-enyl residue
attached to the glycerol moiety and a polar head made of a nitrogenous base, a glycerol, or an
inositol unit. The terms "phosphatide," "glycerophospholipid," and "phosphoglyceride" are used
interchangeably. In an exemplary embodiment, the phosphatide utilized in the melt-extruded
Curcumin is a lecithin. Lecithins are particular phosphatidylcholines, i.e., a group of
phosphatides composed of phosphoric acid, choline, and fatty acids.
[0082] In certain exemplary embodiments, the melt-extruded Curcumin includes a normally
solid polyol (i.e., "normally solid" means that the polyol is solid at NTP (Normal Temperature
and Pressure, i.e., 20° C and 1 arm)). The normally solid polyol acts as a melting point or
softening point depressant and facilitates the uniform incorporation of the Curcuminoid into the
solid dispersion matrix. The normally solid polyol may act as a plasticizer for the nutritionally
acceptable polymer. In addition, the normally solid polyol may initially melt and the other
component may dissolve in the melt.
[0083] In general, the melt-extruded Curcumin is utilized in certain exemplary compositions
described herein comprises: a) about 0.1% to about 50%>, for example, about 5% to about 30% or
about 10% to about 20%, by weight of Curcuminoids; b) about 20% to about 95%, for example,
about 40% to about 80%, by weight of nutritionally acceptable thermoplastic polymer; c) about
5% to about 50%, for example, about 5% to about 25%, by weight of phosphatide; and d) about
0% to about 50%, for example, about 1% to about 30% or about 5% to about 15%, by weight of
normally solid polyol.
[0084] The melt-extruded Curcumin may be prepared by a method comprising: a) blending one
or more Curcuminoids (e.g., Curcumin, demethoxyCurcumin, bisdemethoxyCurcumin), a
nutritionally acceptable thermoplastic polymer, and a phosphatide; b) heating the blend to obtain
a homogeneous melt; c) forcing the homogenous melt through one or more nozzles; and d)
allowing the homogenous melt to solidify to obtain a melt-extruded curcumin product. Steps a)
to c) may be performed in one or more than one suitable apparatus, such as an extruder or
kneader extruder. In addition, in certain exemplary embodiments, the melt-extruded Curcumin
may be milled or otherwise processed to provide the melt-extruded Curcumin in powder or
granular form.
[0085] Further details regarding melt-extruded Curcumin and methods for preparing the same
may be found in International Publication No. WO 2012/049253 Al, which is incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
[0086] In one exemplary embodiment, Curcumin can be co-supplemented with piperine
(generally extracted from black pepper) to increase the bioavailability and hence the
absorbability of the Curcumin. In one exemplary embodiment, piperine is co-supplemented in
an amount of about 20 milligrams to increase the bioavailability of the Curcumin. In one
exemplary embodiment, the ratio of piperine to Curcumin is about 1:25 to about 1:5.
[0087] In one exemplary embodiment, Curcumin may be solubilized in an oil having an HLB
(hydrophilic-lipophilic balance) of about 0.7 to about 14 (i.e., a polar oil) such that the resulting
oil mixture provides increased bioavailability of the Curcumin. One suitable polar oil for
dissolving the Curcumin is a medium chain triglyceride oil (MCT oil).
[0088] In one exemplary embodiment, the Curcumin is a mixture of Curcuminoids (e.g.,
Curcumin, demethoxyCurcumin, and bisdemethoxyCurcumin) obtained from the rhizomes of
Curcuma Longa. In one exemplary embodiment, the Curcumin is melt-extruded Curcumin
obtained using Meltrex® technology (Abbott Nutrition, Columbus, Ohio). In one exemplary
embodiment, the Curcumin is Meriva Bioavailable Curcumin, commercially available from
Idena SPA (Milan, Italy). In one exemplary embodiment, the Curcumin is Longvida Optimized
Curcumin, commercially available from Verdure Sciences (Noblesville, Indiana). In one
exemplary embodiment, the Curcumin is Theracurmin CR-01 1L, commercially available from
Theravalues Corporation (Tokyo, Japan). In one exemplary embodiment, the Curcumin is
Curqlife Curcumin, commercially available from Interhealth Nutraceuticals (Benicia,
California).
[0089] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional composition
based thereon based thereon, comprises about 0.001% to about 3.4% of Curcumin by weight of
the composition. In certain exemplary embodiments, the composition comprises at least 0.001%
of Curcumin by weight of the composition, including between about 0.002%> and about 3.4%,
including between about 0.002%> and about 3.36%, including between about 0.005% and about
1.87%, including between about 0.03%> and about 0.935%, including between about 0.1%> and
about 0.5%, including between about 0.1% to about 0.467%, and also including between about
0.234% and about 0.3%, by weight of the composition. Certain other exemplary embodiments of
the composition comprise Curcumin in amounts between about 0.002% and about 0.234%,
between about 0.005%> and about 0.467%, between about 0.03% and about 0.935%, between
about 0 .1% and about 1.87%, and between about 0.3% and about 3.36%, by weight of the
composition.
[0090] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional composition
based thereon, comprises Curcumin in an amount between about 1 milligram and about 10,000
milligrams per dose or serving of the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the
composition, including a nutritional composition based thereon, comprises Curcumin in an
amount between about 50 milligrams and about 7,500 milligrams per dose or serving of the
composition. In another exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional
composition based thereon, comprises Curcumin in an amount between about 100 milligrams
and about 5,000 milligrams, including between about 200 milligrams and about 4,000
milligrams, including between about 400 milligrams and about 2,000 milligrams, including
between about 1,200 milligrams and about 1,800 milligrams per dose or serving of the
composition.
[0091] As previously discussed, in one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a
nutritional composition based thereon based thereon, may include melt-extruded Curcumin. In
certain exemplary embodiments, the composition includes melt-extruded Curcumin in an amount
of about 20 milligrams to about 7,500 milligrams per serving, including about 150 milligrams to
about 6,500 milligrams, including about 300 milligrams to about 6,000 milligrams, including
about 400 milligrams to about 5,000 milligrams, including about 500 milligrams to about 2,500
milligrams, including about 750 milligrams to about 1,500 milligrams, and also including about
750 milligrams to about 1,000 milligrams per serving of the composition. As previously
discussed, in certain exemplary embodiments, the amount of Curcuminoids contained in the
melt-extruded Curcumin may be between about 0.1% and about 50% by weight of the meltextruded
Curcumin. In other exemplary embodiments the composition includes melt-extruded
Curcumin in an amount sufficient to provide up to about 3,750 milligrams of Curcuminoids per
serving, including between about 2 milligrams and about 3,750 milligrams, including between
about 50 milligrams and about 3,000 milligrams, including between about 150 milligrams and
about 2,000 milligrams, including between about 250 milligrams and about 1,500 milligrams,
including between about 300 milligrams and about 1,000 milligrams, and also including between
about 400 milligrams and about 750 milligrams of Curcuminoids per serving. Since the
Curcuminoids in melt-extruded Curcumin are significantly more bioavailable than conventional
crystalline Curcuminoids, a smaller amount of Curcuminoids are required to achieve the bone
health and joint health effects described herein. For example, an effective amount of nonformulated
crystalline Curcuminoids may be about 1,500 milligrams, whereas an effective
amount of Curcumin formulated as bioavailable Curcumin may be about 150 milligrams (e.g.,
about 300 milligrams of melt-extruded Curcumin containing about 50% by weight
Curcuminoids) due to a 10-fold increase in bioavailability.
[0092] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional composition
based thereon based thereon, comprises sufficient Curcumin to provide an individual with at
least 1 milligram, including at least 3 milligrams, including between about 1 milligram and about
10,000 milligrams, including between about 10 milligrams and about 10,000 milligrams,
including between about 100 milligrams and about 4,000 milligrams, including between about
400 milligrams and about 2,000 milligrams, including between about 1,200 milligrams and about
1,800 milligrams, per day of Curcumin. In certain exemplary embodiments, the total daily
amount of Curcumin may be administered to an individual in a single undivided dose or serving
of the composition, or may be split into multiple (e.g., two, three, four) doses or servings per day
of the composition.
Vitamin K2
[0093] As previously discussed, the exemplary compositions described herein also comprise
Vitamin K2 in addition to Curcumin. Any suitable form of Vitamin K2, also referred to as
menaquinone, may be utilized in the exemplary methods and compositions described herein.
Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin important for post-translational modification of certain
proteins, mostly required for blood coagulation and metabolic pathways in bone.
[0094] Vitamin K2 is prevalent in organ meats, egg yolks, and dairy products. Further, a
traditional Japanese food, natto, which consists of fermented soybeans produced by Bacillus
subtilis natto, is uniquely rich in Vitamin K2, and particularly menaquinone-7 (MK-7). The
formula for MK-7, also referred to as 2-methyl-3-all-trans-farnesyl digeranyl-1,4-
naphthoquinone or by its systematic name (all-E)-2-(3,7,l 1,1 5,1 9,23,27-Heptamethyl-
2,6,10,14,18,22,26-octacosaheptaenyl)-2-methyl-l,4-naphthalenedione, is shown below:
[0095] In certain exemplary embodiments, the composition, including a nutritional
composition based thereon based thereon, comprises at least 0.0001% of Vitamin K2 by weight
of the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional
composition based thereon, comprises about 0.000 1% to about 0.1% of Vitamin K2 by weight of
the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional
composition based thereon, comprises about 0.0005% to about 0.1% of Vitamin K2 by weight of
the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional
composition based thereon, comprises about 0.00 1% to about 0.1% of Vitamin K2 by weight of
the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional
composition based thereon, comprises about 0.0025% to about 0.1% by weight of the
composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional
composition based thereon, comprises about 0.01% to about 0.1%> of Vitamin K2 by weight of
the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the Vitamin K2 present in the composition,
including a nutritional composition based thereon, is menaquinone-7 (MK-7). In one exemplary
embodiment, the Vitamin K2 present in the composition, including a nutritional composition
based thereon, is menaquinone-4 (MK-4). In one exemplary embodiment, the Vitamin K2
present in the composition, including a nutritional composition based thereon, is a combination
of MK-7 and MK-4.
[0096] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional composition
based thereon, comprises Vitamin K2 (e.g. , in the form of MK-7 or a combination of MK-7 and
MK-4) in an amount between about 25 micrograms and 200 micrograms per dose or serving of
the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional
composition based thereon, comprises Vitamin K2 in an amount between about 50 micrograms
and about 150 micrograms per dose or serving of the composition. In another exemplary
embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional composition based thereon, comprises
Vitamin K2 in an amount between about 75 micrograms and about 100 micrograms per dose or
serving of the composition. As discussed above, the Vitamin K2 may be in the form of MK-4,
MK-7, or a combination thereof. An example of a suitable commercially available source of
Vitamin K2 (as MK-7) is MenaQ7 available from NattoPharma ASA (Hovik, Norway).
Macronutrients
[0097] As previously discussed, in certain exemplary embodiments, the composition
comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2 may be formulated as a nutritional composition. In one
exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition may further comprise one or more
macronutrients. In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition further comprises at
least one source of protein. In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition further
comprises at least one source of carbohydrate. In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional
composition further comprises at least one source of fat. In one exemplary embodiment, the
composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2 further comprises at least one source of
protein, at least one source of carbohydrate, and at least one source of fat. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2 further comprises at least
one source of protein, at least one source of carbohydrate, and at least one source of fat to
provide a complete nutritional composition (i.e., the composition contains sufficient types and
levels of macronutrients (protein, carbohydrate, and fat) and micronutrients sufficient to provide
a sole source of nutrition for the individual to which it is administered).
[0098] Macronutrients suitable for use in the exemplary methods and compositions described
herein include any protein, carbohydrate, or fat or source thereof, which is now known to be or
becomes known in the future to be, suitable for use in an oral nutritional composition, provided
that the macronutrient is safe and effective for oral administration and is otherwise compatible
with the other ingredients in the nutritional composition.
[0099] Generally, the concentration or amount of protein, carbohydrate, or fat in the nutritional
composition can vary considerably depending upon the particular product form (e.g., bars or
other solid dosage forms, milk or soy-based liquids/emulsions, clear beverages, reconstitutable
powders) and targeted dietary needs. For the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, these
macronutrients will often be formulated within any of the exemplary ranges described in Tables
1 and 2.
Each numerical value preceded by the term "about."
Each numerical value preceded by the term "about."
[00100] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition comprises at least one
source of protein. In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition comprises at least
one source of protein in an amount sufficient to provide about 5 grams to about 50 grams of
protein per serving of the nutritional composition. In certain exemplary embodiments, the
nutritional composition comprises about 5 grams to about 40 grams, about 10 grams to about 35
grams, or about 15 grams to about 30 grams of protein per serving. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition comprises about 1% to about 30% of at least one source of protein
by weight of the composition. In one exemplary embodiment, the composition comprises about
1% to about 20% of at least one source of protein by weight of the composition. In one
exemplary embodiment, the composition comprises about 1% to about 15%, about 1% to about
10% , about 1% to about 7%, or about 1% to about 5% of at least one source of protein by weight
of the composition. Any source of protein may typically be used in the nutritional compositions
so long as it is suitable for oral administration and is otherwise compatible with any other
selected ingredients or features in the nutritional composition.
[00101] The at least one source of protein may include, but is not limited to, intact, hydrolyzed,
and partially hydrolyzed protein, which may be derived from any known or otherwise suitable
source such as milk (e.g., casein, whey), animal (e.g., meat, fish), cereal (e.g., rice, corn, wheat),
vegetable (e.g., soy, potato, pea), and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of the at
least one source of protein include whey protein concentrates, whey protein isolates, whey
protein hydrolysates, acid caseins, sodium casemates, calcium casemates, potassium casemates,
casein hydrolysates, milk protein concentrates, milk protein isolates, milk protein hydrolysates,
nonfat dry milk, condensed skim milk, soy protein concentrates, soy protein isolates, soy protein
hydrolysates, pea protein concentrates, pea protein isolates, pea protein hydrolysates, insect
proteins, earthworm proteins, potato protein, rice protein, corn protein, wheat protein, sunflower
protein, chickpea protein, quinoa protein, and combinations thereof. In addition, the at least one
source of protein may comprise any one source of protein or any combination of two or more
distinct sources of protein, such as any of the various sources of protein provided in the nonlimiting
list presented above.
[00102] In one exemplary embodiment, the at least one source of protein may also include, or
be entirely or partially replaced by, free amino acids, non-limiting examples of which include Ltryptophan,
L-glutamine, L-tyrosine, L-methionine, L-cysteine, taurine, L-arginine, L-carnitine,
and combinations thereof.
[00103] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition comprises at least one
source of carbohydrate. In certain exemplary embodiments, the nutritional composition
comprises about 15 grams to about 110 grams of at least one source of carbohydrate per serving.
In other exemplary embodiments, the nutritional composition comprises about 25 grams to about
90 grams, including about 40 grams to about 65 grams, and also including about 45 grams to
about 55 grams of at least one source of carbohydrate per serving. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition comprises about 10% to about 80%> of at least one source of
carbohydrate by weight of the composition. In certain exemplary embodiments, the composition
comprises about 20%> to about 70%>, about 30%> to about 65%, or about 40% to about 60% of at
least one source of carbohydrate by weight of the composition.
[00104] The at least one source of carbohydrate may be simple, complex, or variations or
combinations thereof. Generally, any source of carbohydrate may be used so long as it is
suitable for oral administration and is otherwise compatible with any other selected ingredients
or features present in the nutritional composition. Non-limiting examples of a source of
carbohydrate suitable for use in the exemplary methods and compositions described herein
include hydrolyzed or modified or resistant starch or cornstarch, maltodextrin, isomaltulose,
sucromalt, glucose polymers, sucrose, corn syrup, corn syrup solids, rice-derived carbohydrate,
glucose, fructose, lactose, high fructose corn syrup, honey, sugar alcohols (e.g., maltitol,
erythritol, sorbitol), and combinations thereof.
[00105] In one exemplary embodiment, the at least one source of carbohydrate may comprise
one or more of soluble dietary fiber and insoluble dietary fiber. Examples of suitable soluble
dietary fiber for use in the exemplary methods and compositions described herein include, but
are not limited to, gum arabic, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, guar gum, citrus pectin, low and
high methoxy pectin, oat and barley glucans, carrageenan, psyllium and combinations thereof.
Examples of suitable insoluble dietary fiber for use in the exemplary methods and compositions
described herein include, but are not limited to, oat hull fiber, pea hull fiber, soy hull fiber, soy
cotyledon fiber, sugar beet fiber, cellulose, corn bran, and combinations thereof.
[00106] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition comprises at least one
source of fat. In certain exemplary embodiments, the nutritional composition comprises no fat,
or essentially no fat (i.e., less than 0.5 grams of fat per serving). In one exemplary embodiment,
the nutritional composition comprises about 0.5 grams to about 45 grams of at least one source
of fat per serving. In other exemplary embodiments, the nutritional composition comprises about
2 grams to about 35 grams, about 5 grams to about 30 grams, about 10 grams to about 25 grams,
or about 15 grams to about 20 grams of at least one source of fat per serving. In one exemplary
embodiment, the composition comprises about 0.5% to about 30% of at least one source of fat by
weight of the composition. In certain exemplary embodiments, the composition comprises about
1% to about 30%, about 5% to about 25%, about 10% to about 20%, or about 12% to about 18%
of at least one source of fat by weight of the composition. In certain exemplary embodiments,
the composition comprises about 1% to about 18%, about 1.5% to about 10%, or about 2% to
about 5% of at least one source of fat by weight of the composition.
[00107] In general, any source of fat may be used so long as it is suitable for oral
administration and is otherwise compatible with any other selected ingredients or features
present in the exemplary compositions described herein. The at least one source of fat may be
derived from plants, animals, and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of suitable
sources of fat for use in the exemplary compositions described herein include coconut oil,
fractionated coconut oil, soy oil, corn oil, olive oil, safflower oil, high oleic safflower oil, high
GLA-safflower oil, MCT (medium chain triglycerides) oil, sunflower oil, high oleic sunflower
oil, palm oil, palm kernel oil, palm olein, canola oil, marine (e.g. , tuna, sardine) oil, flaxseed oil,
borage oil, cottonseed oil, evening primrose oil, blackcurrant seed oil, transgenic oil sources,
fungal oils, and combinations thereof.
Calcium
[00108] Calcium is an important component of a healthy diet and a mineral necessary for life.
Approximately ninety-nine percent of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth. The
remaining calcium in the body has other important uses, such as exocytosis, especially
neurotransmitter release, and muscle contraction. Calcium deficiency, particularly in the case of
menopausal or postmenopausal women, can lead to osteoporosis, in which the bone deteriorates
and there is an increased risk of fractures.
[00109] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional composition
based thereon, further comprises calcium, or a source of calcium. In certain exemplary
embodiments, the composition includes a source of calcium in an amount sufficient to provide
about 150 milligrams to about 800 milligrams of calcium (as elemental calcium) per serving or
dose. In certain exemplary embodiments, the composition includes an amount of calcium
between about 200 milligrams and about 600 milligrams, between about 250 milligrams and
about 500 milligrams, or between about 300 milligrams and about 400 milligrams per serving or
dose. Exemplary sources of calcium suitable for use in the compositions described herein
include, but are not limited to, calcium carbonate, calcium caseinate, calcium citrate, calcium
chloride, calcium lactate, calcium acetate, and calcium aspartate.
Vitamin D3
[001 10] Vitamin D3 is a compound that is naturally produced in the skin in response to
sunlight, and is also present in certain foodstuffs (particularly oily fish). Vitamin D3 is a type of
steroid hormone and among other things, a powerful mediator of immune function. In addition,
Vitamin D3 is well known for its effect on calcium metabolism. Proper levels of Vitamin D3 are
necessary to maintain bone mineral density and serum (blood) calcium levels.
[001 11] In one exemplary embodiment, the composition, including a nutritional composition
based thereon, comprises Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). In one exemplary embodiment, the
composition comprises about 160 IU (4 micrograms) to about 1,000 IU (25 micrograms) of
Vitamin D3 per serving or dose. In certain exemplary embodiments, the composition comprises
about 400 IU (10 micrograms) to about 800 IU (20 micrograms), about 400 IU (10 micrograms)
to about 600 IU (15 micrograms), or about 160 IU (4 micrograms) to about 240 IU (6
micrograms) per serving or dose. An example of a suitable commercially available source of
Vitamin D3 is Qali-D (Vitamin D) available from DSM (Netherlands).
Optional Ingredients
[001 12] In certain exemplary embodiments, the nutritional composition may comprise other
optional ingredients, for example, to modify the physical, chemical, aesthetic, or processing
characteristics of the nutritional composition, or to provide additional nutritional benefits. Many
such optional ingredients are known to be suitable for use in nutritional products and may also be
used in the nutritional compositions described herein, provided that such optional ingredients are
safe for oral administration and are compatible with the essential and other ingredients in the
selected product form.
[001 13] Non-limiting examples of such other optional ingredients include preservatives, anti
oxidants, buffers, pharmaceutical actives, sweeteners, colorants, flavors, flavor enhancers,
thickening agents and stabilizers, emulsifying agents, prebiotics, probiotics, anti-inflammatory
agents, lubricants, and combinations thereof.
[001 14] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition may comprise at least one
vitamin (in addition to Vitamin K2), at least one mineral, and combinations thereof. Exemplary
vitamins that may be used in the nutritional composition include, but are not limited to, Vitamin
A, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin D2, Vitamin D3, Vitamin E, Vitamin Kl, Vitamin A
palmitate, Vitamin C palmitate (ascorbyl palmitate), Vitamin E acetate, thiamine, riboflavin,
pyridoxine, carotenoids (e.g., beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein, lycopene), niacin, folic acid,
pantothenic acid, biotin, choline, inositol, and various salts, esters, or other derivatives thereof,
and combinations thereof. Exemplary minerals that may be used in the nutritional composition
include, but are not limited to, calcium, selenium, potassium, iodine, phosphorus, magnesium,
iron, zinc, manganese, copper, sodium, molybdenum, chromium, chloride, and combinations
thereof.
[001 15] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition may comprise at least one
sweetening agent. In certain exemplary embodiments, the at least one sweetening agent is a
sugar alcohol such as maltitol, erythritol, sorbitol, xylitol, mannitol, isomalt, and lactitol, or at
least one artificial or high potency sweetener such as acesulfame K, aspartame, sucralose,
saccharin, stevia, and tagatose, and combinations thereof. The sweetening agents, especially as a
combination of a sugar alcohol and an artificial sweetener, can be useful in formulating liquid
nutritional compositions having a desirable favor profile. These sweetener combinations can
also be effective in masking undesirable flavors, for example, as sometimes associated with the
addition of vegetable proteins to a liquid nutritional composition.
[001 16] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition may comprise a flowing
agent or anti-caking agent to retard clumping or caking of a nutritional powder embodiment over
time and to make the nutritional powder flow easily from its container. Any flowing or anticaking
agents that are known or otherwise suitable for use in a nutritional powder or product
form may be suitable for use herein, non-limiting examples of which include tricalcium
phosphate, silicates, and combinations thereof. The concentration of the flowing agent or anticaking
agent will often vary depending upon the product form, the other selected ingredients, the
desired flow properties, and so forth.
[001 17] In one exemplary embodiment, the nutritional composition may comprise a stabilizer.
Any stabilizer that is known or otherwise suitable for use in a nutritional composition may also
be suitable for use herein, non-limiting examples of which include gums such as xanthan gum
and locust bean gum.
[001 18] In certain exemplary embodiments, the nutritional composition optionally includes one
or more masking agents to reduce or otherwise obscure the development of any residual bitter
flavors and after taste in the nutritional composition over time. Suitable masking agents include
natural and artificial sweeteners, sodium sources such as sodium chloride, and hydrocolloids
such as guar gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan, gellan gum, and combinations thereof. The
amount of masking agent used will often vary depending upon the particular masking agent
selected, other ingredients in the formulation, and other formulation or product target variables.
Methods of Manufacture
[001 19] The exemplary nutritional compositions may be prepared by any process or method
(now known or known in the future) suitable for making a selected product form, such as a
nutritional solid, a nutritional powder, or a nutritional liquid. Many such techniques may be
known for any given product form, such as nutritional liquids or nutritional powders, and can
readily be applied by one of ordinary skill in the art to the various exemplary embodiments
described herein.
[00120] In one suitable manufacturing process, a nutritional liquid is prepared using at least
three separate slurries, including a protein-in-fat (PIF) slurry, a carbohydrate-mineral (CHOMIN)
slurry, and a protein-in-water (PIW) slurry. The PIF slurry is formed by heating and
mixing selected oils (e.g., canola oil, corn oil, fish oil) and then adding an emulsifier (e.g., soy
lecithin), fat soluble vitamins (e.g., Vitamin K2), and a portion of the total protein (e.g., milk
protein concentrate) with continued heat and agitation. The CHO-MIN slurry is formed by
adding with heated agitation to water: Curcumin, minerals (e.g. , potassium citrate, dipostassium
phosphate, sodium citrate), trace minerals and ultra trace minerals (e.g., TM/UTM premix),
thickening or suspending agents (e.g., gellan gum, carrageenan). The resulting CHO-MIN slurry
is held for 10 minutes with continued heat and agitation before adding additional minerals (e.g.,
potassium chloride, magnesium carbonate, potassium iodide), and carbohydrates (e.g., sucrose,
corn syrup). The PIW slurry is then formed by mixing with heat and agitation the remaining
protein (e.g. , sodium caseinate, soy protein concentrate) into water.
[00121] The resulting slurries are then blended together with heated agitation and the pH
adjusted to a desired range, typically 6.6-7.0, after which the composition is subjected to hightemperature
short-time (HTST) processing during which the composition is heat treated,
emulsified and homogenized, and then allowed to cool. Water soluble vitamins and ascorbic
acid are added, the pH is again adjusted to the desired range (if necessary), flavors are added, and
water is added to achieve a desired total solid level. The composition is then aseptically
packaged to form an aseptically packaged nutritional emulsion, or the composition is added to
retort stable containers and then subjected to retort sterilization to form retort sterilized
nutritional emulsions.
[00122] The manufacturing processes for the nutritional emulsions may be carried out in ways
other than those set forth herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the general
inventive concepts. The disclosed embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects
illustrative and non-restrictive with changes and equivalents intended to be encompassed therein
in accordance with the general inventive concepts.
[00123] A nutritional powder, such as a spray dried nutritional powder, may be prepared by
any combination of known or otherwise effective techniques suitable for making and formulating
a spray dried nutritional powder. The spray drying step may likewise include any spray drying
technique that is known for or otherwise suitable for use in the production of nutritional powders.
Many different spray drying methods and techniques are known for use in the nutrition field,
each of which may be suitable for use in the manufacture of the exemplary nutritional powders
described herein.
[00124] One method of preparing an exemplary spray dried nutritional powder comprises
forming and homogenizing an aqueous slurry or liquid comprising Curcumin, Vitamin K2, and
at least one source of protein, and then spray drying the slurry or liquid to produce a spray dried
nutritional powder. The method may further comprise the step of spray drying, dry mixing, or
otherwise adding additional nutritional ingredients, including any one or more of the ingredients
described herein, to the spray dried nutritional powder. In certain exemplary embodiments, the
methods of manufacture may utilize Curcumin formulated as bioavailable Curcumin and
menaquinone-7.
Methods of Use
[00125] The exemplary compositions comprising a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2
may be used to improve one or more of bone health, bone strength, and joint health. Particularly,
it has been surprisingly found that the combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 synergistically
inhibits osteoclast differentiation, and consequently inhibits collagen degradation, to thereby
improve bone health and joint health. Further, the combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2
suppresses bone resorption. These benefits are important in maintaining the integrity of bones as
well as joints, which provide protection against the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and other
conditions resulting in bone damage or loss including, but not limited to, systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE), post-menopausal osteoporosis, corticosteroid treatment, anorexia, disuse
from stroke, and Parkinson's Disease. Accordingly, the exemplary compositions comprising a
combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 describe herein may benefit individuals by
preventing, controlling, reducing, or treating occurrences of conditions that result in reduced
bone health, joint health, or bone loss. Any of the previously described exemplary compositions
may be used in the exemplary methods described herein.
[00126] The exemplary compositions comprising a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2
may provide anti-inflammatory benefits, which is important since inflammation contributes
significantly to the pathogenesis of a number of bone and joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, osteopenia, or osteoporosis. Therefore, the exemplary methods and
compositions described herein may further prevent, control, reduce, or treat osteoarthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, osteopenia, or osteoporosis.
[00127] In one exemplary embodiment, a method of administering a composition comprising a
combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 may be used to treat low-grade inflammation in an
individual in need thereof. Low-grade inflammation has been associated with joint degradation,
and may be a trigger that causes autoimmune responses that deteriorate synovial joints. By
functionally addressing an underlying cause of joint deterioration, the exemplary methods and
compositions described herein may prevent or significantly delay joint deterioration, particularly
age-related joint deterioration and progression to osteoarthritis.
[00128] In one exemplary embodiment, a method of administering a composition comprising a
combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 may be used to inhibit osteoclast differentiation in an
individual in need thereof. By inhibiting osteoclast differentiation, osteoclastic bone resorption
is inhibited or significantly reduced, which ultimately lessens bone loss. The reduced bone loss
can also serve to maintain the integrity of bone at that joints, known as subchondral bone, the
erosion of which contributes to the pathogenesis of joint disease, such as osteoarthritis.
[00129] In one exemplary embodiment, a method of administering a composition comprising
Curcumin and Vitamin K2 to an individual in need thereof may be used to improve or maintain
bone health, joint health, or both. In one exemplary embodiment, the individual in need thereof
is a human having or diagnosed as at risk for one or more of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis,
SLE, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. In one exemplary embodiment, the individual in need
thereof is a menopausal or post-menopausal woman. In general, the menopausal or post
menopausal woman is estrogen deficient, which can cause osteoporosis and a corresponding
reduction in bone mineral density. In one exemplary embodiment, the individual in need thereof
has degenerated cartilage in one or more joints, including, but not limited to, knee joints, hip
joints, shoulder joints, elbows, and wrists. In one exemplary embodiment, the individual in need
thereof is diagnosed as having, or exhibiting symptoms associated with, low-grade inflammation.
[00130] In one exemplary embodiment, an individual in need thereof may refer to a subset of
individuals in need of improved bone health, joint health, or both. In one exemplary
embodiment, such a subset of individuals in specific need of improved bone health, joint health,
or both may include infants, pediatrics, teens, or adults who experience, are susceptible to, or are
at elevated risk of experiencing osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, or fragile bones.
In one exemplary embodiment, such a subset of individuals in specific need of improved bone
health, joint health, or both may include infants, pediatrics, teens, or adults who experience, are
susceptible to, or are at elevated risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), post-menopausal
osteoporosis, corticosteroid treatment, anorexia, disuse from stroke and Parkinson's Disease, and
the like. Preterm infants, infants, pediatrics, teens, adults, and older adults may be susceptible to
or at elevated risk for experiencing these diseases and conditions due to one or more of family
history, age, environment, and lifestyle. Based on the foregoing, because some of the exemplary
methods described herein are directed to specific subsets or subclasses of identified individuals
(that is, the subset or subclass of individuals "in need" of assistance in addressing one or more
specific conditions noted herein), not all individuals will fall within the subset or subclass of
individuals as described herein for certain diseases or conditions.
[00131] In one exemplary embodiment, an exemplary composition comprising Curcumin and
Vitamin K2 may be administered to an individual in need thereof one or more times per day for a
period suitable to achieve the desired effect. For example, according to one exemplary
embodiment, an exemplary composition is administered to an individual in need thereof one a
day for at least a week, once a day for at least two weeks, once a day for at least a month, once a
day for at least 6 months, or once a day for a year or more. In certain other exemplary
embodiments, an exemplary composition is administered to an individual in need thereof
multiple (e.g., two) times a day for at least a week, multiple (e.g., two) times a day for at least
two weeks, multiple (e.g. , two) times a day for at least a month, multiple (e.g. , two) times a day
for at least 6 months, or multiple (e.g., two) times a day for a year or more. Within the context of
administering a dose or serving of an exemplary composition to an individual in need thereof,
according to one exemplary embodiment, every day is intended to reflect an individual who has
been instructed to be administered the composition daily and who actually is administered the
composition for at least 70% ( and in certain other exemplary embodiments at least 90%) of the
days during the period of administration.
[00132] In one exemplary embodiment, an exemplary composition comprising Curcumin and
Vitamin K2 is acutely administered to the individual in need thereof. The phrases "acutely
administered" and "acute administration," as used herein, refer to administration of the
exemplary composition to the individual in need thereof on a non-regular basis. Acute
administration may be a single serving, or multiple servings, administered over a relatively short
time period, such as up to three weeks, including one day, two days, three days, five days, one
week, ten days, two weeks, or three weeks.
[00133] In one exemplary embodiment, an exemplary composition comprising Curcumin and
Vitamin K2 is chronically administered to the individual in need thereof. The phrases
"chronically administered" and "chronic administration," as used herein, refers to regular
administration of the exemplary composition to the individual in need thereof on an indefinite
regular basis, or to regular administration of the exemplary composition to the individual in need
thereof for a significant period of time. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, chronic
administration can include regular administration for at least three weeks, regular administration
for at least one month, regular administration for at least 6 weeks, regular administration for at
least two months, regular administration for at least 3 months, regular administration for at least
4 months, regular administration for at least 5 months, regular administration for at least 6
months, or regular administration for at least 9 months. In other exemplary embodiments,
chronic administration refers to regular administration for at least 1 year, regular administration
for at least 1.5 years, regular administration for at least 2 years, or regular administration for
more than 2 years. "Regular administration," as used herein, refers to administration according
to a schedule whereby the individual in need thereof will receive the exemplary composition at
regular intervals.
[00134] As used herein, "regular intervals" refers to administration in a repeating, periodic
fashion where the time between administrations is approximately (or intended to be
approximately) the same. In various exemplary embodiments, administration at regular intervals
includes daily administration or weekly administration. In other exemplary embodiments,
administration at regular intervals includes administration 1-2 times per week, administration 1-3
times per week, administration 2-3 times per week, administration 1-4 times per week,
administration 1-5 times per week, administration 2-5 times per week, administration 3-5 times
per week, administration 1-6 times per week, administration 1-7 times per week, administration
2-6 times per week, administration 2-7 times per week, administration 1-2 times per day,
administration 1-3 times per day, administration 1-4 times per day, administration 2-3 times per
day, administration 2-4 times per day, administration 3-4 times per day, administration 2-5 times
per day, administration 3-5 times per day, or administration 4-5 times per day.
[00135] In one exemplary embodiment, a nutritional composition comprising at least one
source of protein in an amount sufficient to provide about 5 grams to about 50 grams of protein
per serving, Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium is administered to an individual in
need thereof. Upon consumption of the nutritional composition, the bone quality of the
individual in need thereof is maintained. In certain exemplary embodiments, the nutritional
composition may comprise effective amounts of each of Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3,
and calcium. For example, the nutritional composition may comprise, per dose or serving:
Curcumin in an amount between about 1 milligram and about 10,000 milligrams, Vitamin K2 in
an amount between about 25 micrograms and about 200 micrograms, Vitamin D3 in an amount
between about 4 micrograms and about 25 micrograms, and calcium in an amount between about
150 milligrams to about 800 milligrams.
[00136] In one exemplary embodiment, a nutritional composition comprising at least one
source of protein in an amount sufficient to provide 5 grams to 50 grams of protein per serving,
Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium is administered to an individual having or
diagnosed as at risk for bone loss. Upon consumption of the nutritional composition, the bone
loss of the individual is reduced. In certain exemplary embodiments, the nutritional composition
may comprise effective amounts of each of Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium.
For example, the nutritional composition may comprise, per dose or serving: Curcumin in an
amount between about 1 milligram and about 10,000 milligrams, Vitamin K2 in an amount
between about 25 micrograms and about 200 micrograms, Vitamin D3 in an amount between
about 4 micrograms and about 25 micrograms, and calcium in an amount between about 150
milligrams to about 800 milligrams.
[00137] The terms "maintain," "maintained," or "maintenance" when used herein in
connection with bone quality, or a characteristic of bone quality, refer to retaining an amount of
bone quality that corresponds to the bone quality of an individual prior to initiating the methods
disclosed herein, or a percentage thereof, or even an increase in bone quality, or a characteristic
of bone quality. As previously mentioned, bone quality is indicated by various characteristics
including, but not limited to, bone mineral density (BMD), bone strength, bone mineral content
(BMC), bone turnover, and bone microarchitecture.
[00138] A variety of techniques may be used to determine, either quantitatively or
qualitatively, the characteristics that provide an indication of bone quality. For example, a dual
energy X-Ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan may be used to measure BMC and BMD. BMC
determines the mass of mineral present in the whole body or in a selected bone region. BMC
changes reflect the result of the metabolic "mass" balance between bone formation and bone
destruction. BMC represented relative to the projected bone area refers to BMD. BMD
represents the whole mass of mineral present in the bone region studied. Other techniques for
measuring BMC and BMD include single-photon absorptiometry, dual-photon absorptiometry,
and quantitative computed tomography.
[00139] Another useful technique for providing an indication of bone quality is microcomputerized
tomography (micro-CT). A micro-CT scan allows for the nondestructive
assessment and analysis of bone microarchitecture (e.g., three-dimensional trabecular and
cortical bone structural properties). Scanning with micro-CT can be achieved at resolutions as
low as 5 mih, allowing for the determination of porosities and subtle modeling and remodeling
events of the bone tissue. Furthermore, true three-dimensional image reconstructions permit the
assessment of bone microarchitecture as a three-dimensional structure, providing critical
information to images collected through histomorphometry.
[00140] Bone turnover can be assessed, for example, by measurements of biochemical
markers. Serum alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and procollagen type I propeptides can be
used as indices of bone formation, while urinary hydroxyproline, pyridinoline and
deoxypyridinoline can be used to assess bone resorption.
[00141] In one exemplary embodiment, the bone quality that is maintained is BMD, bone
strength, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, where the individual in need
thereof consumes the nutritional composition comprising at least one source of protein in an
amount sufficient to provide about 5 grams to about 50 grams of protein per serving, Curcumin,
Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium, the level of maintenance of bone quality is about 75% to
about 130% of the BMD of the individual prior to initiating the exemplary methods described
herein. In certain other exemplary embodiments, where the individual in need thereof consumes
the nutritional composition comprising at least one source of protein in an amount sufficient to
provide about 5 grams to about 50 grams of protein per serving, Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin
D3, and calcium, the level of maintenance of bone quality is about 80% to about 130%, about
90% to about 130%, about 100% to about 130%, about 110% to about 130%, or about 120% to
about 130% of the BMD of the individual prior to initiating the exemplary methods described
herein. As previously discussed, the BMD of the individual may be determined by various
clinical techniques, such as DXA.
[00142] According to one exemplary embodiment, a method of administering a nutritional
composition comprising at least one source of protein in an amount sufficient to provide 5 grams
to 50 grams of protein per serving, Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium to an
individual in need thereof may be used to reduce bone loss in the individual. Reduction of bone
loss may also be considered as maintenance of BMD. In one exemplary embodiment, the
reduction in bone loss is an increase in BMD. In accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
where the individual in need thereof consumes the nutritional composition comprising at least
one source of protein in an amount sufficient to provide 5 grams to 50 grams of protein per
serving, Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium, the reduction of bone loss (based
upon maintenance of BMD) is from 75% to 130% of the BMD of the individual prior to
initiating the exemplary methods described herein. In certain other exemplary embodiments,
where the individual in need thereof consumes the nutritional composition comprising at least
one source of protein in an amount sufficient to provide about 5 grams to about 50 grams of
protein per serving, Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium, the level of maintenance
of bone quality is about 80%> to about 130%, about 90%> to about 130%, about 100% to about
130%, about 110% to about 130%, or about 120% to about 130% of the BMD of the individual
prior to initiating the exemplary methods described herein. In the case where the reduction of
bone loss is 100% or more, consumption of the nutritional composition is effective to prevent
bone loss in the subject. As previously discussed, the BMD of the subject may be determined by
various clinical techniques, including DXA.
[00143] In terms of measuring the maintenance of bone quality or the reduction of bone loss, a
first measurement of the bone quality or bone loss (e.g., BMD) of the subject may be performed
prior to initiating the exemplary methods described herein. In one exemplary embodiment, the
first measurement is performed a week (e.g., 1-7 days) before initiation of the exemplary
methods described herein. Next, a second measurement of the bone quality or bone loss of the
subject is performed at some time point after initiating the methods disclosed herein, and the
second measurement is compared to the first measurement. Notably, the comparison of the
second measurement to the first measurement may not show immediate results using the
aforementioned measurement techniques. The resulting effect may take days, weeks, or months
of regular administration of an exemplary composition described herein according to the dosages
and in the intervals previously described herein to obtain the stated measurable results described
above. In one exemplary embodiment, the amount of time between the first measurement of
bone quality or bone loss and the second measurement of bone quality or bone loss is two weeks,
one month, two months, six months, or more. In one exemplary embodiment, for the purpose of
determining the effects of the exemplary methods described herein, a 3-12 month test period of
regular administration of an exemplary composition may be used. In one exemplary
embodiment, for the purpose of determining the effects of the exemplary methods described
herein, a 2 week to 3 month test period of regular administration of an exemplary composition
may be used.
[00144] Accordingly, administration of an exemplary composition described herein may be
effective for improving or maintaining bone health, joint health, or both in an individual in need
thereof. Additionally, administration of an exemplary composition described herein may be
effective for reducing bone loss, maintaining bone quality, or both in an individual in need
thereof. While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the
combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 act synergistically to increase intestinal calcium
absorption, promote bone mineralization by osteoblasts, and inhibit osteoclast differentiation and
activity. Furthermore, it is believed that the combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 act
synergistically to inhibit collagen degradation and suppress bone resorption to thereby improve
bone health and joint health. Several exemplary methods and compositions are further described
herein in the following examples.
EXAMPLES
[00145] The following examples illustrate exemplary embodiments of methods and
compositions encompassed by the general inventive concepts. The examples are given solely for
the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed as limitations of the general inventive
concepts, as many variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of
the general inventive concepts described herein. All exemplified amounts are weight
percentages based upon the total weight of the product, unless otherwise specified.
Example 1
[00146] In this Example, the effects of Curcumin and Vitamin K2, alone and in combination,
on osteoclast differentiation and collagen degradation in vitro were evaluated.
[00147] A 96-well OsteoLyse™ assay system (commercially available from Lonza
Biosciences, Walkersville, Maryland) was used for this evaluation. Specifically, a 96-well
OsteoLyse™ plate was coated with fluorophore-derivatized human bone matrix (europium
conjugated collagen). Human osteoclast precursors, at a density of 10,000/200 mΐ of
differentiation medium (containing M-CSF and RANK Ligand) were seeded onto the surface of
the plate. Triplicate cell culture wells were treated with one of: Curcumin in DMSO; Vitamin
K2 in ethanol; combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2; and alendronate (control). Cell
culture wells with only differentiation medium were treated as standard control wells.
[00148] After six days of culture, old medium was removed and 200 mΐ of fresh differentiation
medium was added to all wells. Twenty-four hours later, on day seven of culture, 10 mΐ of
medium supernatant was used for fluorescence measurement. For the measurement, 10 mΐ of
medium supernatant was added to 100 mΐ of fluorophore-releasing agent (Lonza Bioscience,
Walkersville, Maryland) in a black-walled 96-well plate.
[00149] The samples were briefly mixed and fluorescence was determined using a timeresolved
fluorescence fluorimeter (Spectramax M5, available from Molecular Devices,
Sunnyvale, California, with excitation at 340 nm and emission at 615 nm) over a 400-
microsecond time period after an initial delay of 400 microseconds.
[00150] Osteoclast differentiation in a standard control cell culture well was assumed to be
100% and relative osteoclast differentiation, with respect to control wells, in other cell culture
wells was calculated and plotted on the bar graph shown in FIG. 1.
[00151] As shown in FIG. 1, the combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 synergistically
inhibited osteoclast differentiation by 57.6%, similar to the inhibition by positive control,
Alendronate (53.6%). Curcumin and Vitamin K2 individually, however, did not significantly
inhibit osteoclast differentiation.
Example 2
[00152] In this Example, the effects of Curcumin and Vitamin K2, alone and in combination,
on bone resorption was evaluated.
[00153] A 96-well OsteoAssay™ plate (commercially available from Lonza Biosciences,
Walkersville, Maryland) was used for this evaluation. Specially, a 96-well OsteoAssay™ plate
was coated with a thin-layer of adherent human bone particles. Primary human osteoclast
precursors, at a density of 10,000/200 mΐ of differentiation medium (containing M-CSF and
RANK Ligand), were seeded onto the surface of the plate. Triplicate cell culture wells were
treated with one of: Curcumin in DMSO; Vitamin K2 in ethanol; combination of Curcumin and
Vitamin K2; and alendronate (control). Cell culture wells with only differentiation medium were
treated as standard control wells.
[00154] After six days of culture, old medium was removed and 200 mΐ of fresh basal
resorption medium containing M-CSF and RANK Ligand was added to all wells. Forty-eight
hours later, on day eight of culture, 10 mΐ of medium supernatant was used for calcifluor assay.
For the assay, CalciFluor™ Assay kit (commercially available from Lonza Biosciences,
Walkersville, Maryland) was used. The kit measures the calcium that is released as a result of
osteoclast-medium resorptive activity. The appearance of free calcium in cell culture medium is
a direct result of cell-mediated bone resorption. One vial of calcium detection reagent (Lonza
Bioscience, Walkersville, Maryland) was diluted in 200 ml of detection reagent diluent (Lonza
Bioscience, Walkersville, Maryland) and left to equilibrate for 15 minutes.
[00155] 10 mΐ of cell culture medium supernatant was added to 200 mΐ of reconstituted calcium
detection reagent in a black-walled 96-well plate. In addition, serial dilutions of a calcium
standard were prepared and 10 mΐ of the standard was added to 200 mΐ of calcium detection
reagent, to prepare the standard curve for calcium. The samples were briefly mixed and
fluorescence was determined using a fluorimeter (Spectramax M5, available from Molecular
Devices, Sunnyvale, California, with excitation at 551 nm and emission at 577 nm).
[00156] The concentration of calcium in each well was calculated based on the standard curve.
The concentration of calcium is directly proportional to bone resorption. The relative percentage
inhibition of bone resorption, with respect to standard control cells, was calculated and plotted on
the bar graph as shown in FIG. 2.
[00157] As shown in FIG. 2, Curcumin and Vitamin K2 individually inhibited bone
resorption, 39.7% and 31.9%, respectfully. Moreover, the combination of Curcumin and
Vitamin K2 significantly inhibited bone resorption by 68.2%.
Example 3
[00158] Example 3 illustrates an exemplary composition formulated as a nutritional powder,
the ingredients of which are listed in Table 3 below. All ingredient amounts are listed as kg per
1000 kg batch of product, unless otherwise specified.
Vitamin/Mineral Premix 3.5
Sodium Ascorbate 1.8
Curcumin 1.0
Vitamin K2 (1% by weight) 0.07
Examples 4-5
[00159] Examples 4 and 5 illustrate exemplary compositions formulated as nutritional
powders, the ingredients of which are listed in Table 4 below. All ingredient amounts are listed
as kilogram per 1000 kilogram batch of product, unless otherwise specified. A 40 gram serving
of the nutritional powder of Example 4 will provide 8.6 grams of protein, 400 milligrams of
Curcumin, 100 micrograms of Vitamin K2, 424 milligrams of calcium, and 5 micrograms of
Vitamin D3. A 30 gram serving of the nutritional powder of Example 5 will provide 6.45 grams
of protein, 300 milligrams of Curcumin, 75 micrograms of Vitamin K2, 318 milligrams of
calcium, and 4.8 micrograms of Vitamin D3.
l he Vitamin/Mineral Premix includes: ferrous sulfate; zinc
sulfate; copper sulfate; manganese sulfate; Vitamin A
palmitate; Vitamin E acetate; pyridoxine hydrochloride; folic
acid; Vitamin Kl; Vitamin B12; and maltodextrin.
Examples 6-10
[00160] Examples 6-10 illustrate exemplary compositions formulated as enteral nutritional
compositions, the ingredients of which are listed in Table 5 below. The pH of the enteral
nutritional compositions is about 6.5. All ingredient amounts are listed as kg per approximately
1000 kg batch of product, unless otherwise specified.
Table 5
Ingredient Example 6 Example 7 Example 8 Example 9 Example 10
kg/1000 kg kg/1000 kg kg/1000 kg kg/1000 kg kg/1000 kg
Water Q.S. Q.S. Q.S. Q.S. Q.S.
Milk Protein Concentrate 66.6 66.6 66.6 66.6 66.6
Sucrose 5 1.5 51.5 51.5 5 1.5 5 1.5
Maltodextrin 36.2 36.2 36.2 36.2 36.2
Soy Protein Isolate 15.9 15.9 15.9 15.9 15.9
Soy Oil 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5
Corn Oil 5.89 5.89 5.89 5.89 5.89
Curcumin 1.0 0.95 0.90 1.05 1. 10
Menaquinone-7 (1% by weight) 0.05 0.06 0.065 0.07 0.075
Potassium Citrate 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48
Canola Oil 4.17 4.17 4.17 4.17 4.17
Micronized-Tricalcium Phosphate 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.40
Sodium Citrate 2.02 2.02 2.02 2.02 2.02
Magnesium Chloride 1.88 1.88 1.88 1.88 1.88
Magnesium Phosphate Dibasic 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55
Flavoring Agent 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
Sodium Chloride 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Soy Lecithin 0.865 0.865 0.865 0.865 0.865
Choline Chloride 0.540 0.540 0.540 0.540 0.540
Ascorbic Acid 0.420 0.420 0.420 0.420 0.420
UTM/TM Premix 0.301 0.301 0.301 0.301 0.301
Zinc Sulfate, Monohydrate 0.068450 0.068450 0.068450 0.068450 0.068450
Ferrous Sulfate, Dried 0.053460 0.053460 0.053460 0.053460 0.053460
Manganese Sulfate, Monohydrate 0.016990 0.016990 0.016990 0.016990 0.016990
Cupric Sulfate, Pentahydrate 0.009248 0.009248 0.009248 0.009248 0.009248
Chromium Chloride, Hexahydrate 0.000573 0.000573 0.000573 0.000573 0.000573
Sodium Molybdate, Dihydrate 0.000463 0.000463 0.000463 0.000463 0.000463
Sodium Selencate, Anhydrous 0.000191 0.000191 0.000191 0.000191 0.000191
45% KOH 0.250 0.250 0.250 0.250 0.250
Potassium Hydroxide 0.1126 0.1126 0.1126 0.1126 0.1126
Carrageenan 0.350 0.350 0.350 0.350 0.350
Water Soluble Vitamin Premix 0.0727 0.0727 0.0727 0.0727 0.0727
Niacinamide 0.02726 0.02726 0.02726 0.02726 0.02726
Calcium Pantothenate 0.01763 0.01763 0.01763 0.01763 0.01763
Thiamine Chloride Hydrochloride 0.004504 0.004504 0.004504 0.004504 0.004504
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride 0.004337 0.004337 0.004337 0.004337 0.004337
Riboflavin 0.003519 0.003519 0.003519 0.003519 0.003519
Folic Acid 0.000611 0.000611 0.000611 0.000611 0.000611
Biotin 0.0005311 0.0005311 0.0005311 0.0005311 0.0005311
Cyanoconbalamin 0.00001203 0.00001203 0.00001203 0.00001203 0.00001203
Vitamin DEK Premix 0.0644 0.0644 0.0644 0.0644 0.0644
dl-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate 0.05392 0.05392 0.05392 0.05392 0.05392
Phylloquinone 0.00008012 0.00008012 0.00008012 0.00008012 0.00008012
Vitamin D3 0.00001308 0.00001308 0.00001308 0.00001308 0.00001308
Vitamin A Palmitate 0.00825 0.00825 0.00825 0.00825 0.00825
Potassium Iodide 0.000206 0.000206 0.000206 0.000206 0.000206
Example 11
[00161] In this Example, a study was conducted to determine the effects on bone strength and
bone mineral density (BMD) of Curcumin and Vitamin K2, alone and in combination, along with
a diet enriched with Vitamin D3 and calcium.
[00162] Ovariectomized rats served as the animal model and sham operated rats (without
removal of ovaries) served as the control. The ovariectomized rat is a well-known animal model
for representing post-menopausal estrogen deficient bone loss in adult humans. Seventy female
Sprague-Dawley rats, age about 5 months, were allocated to 7 groups of 6 to 13 animals each, as
shown in Table 6 below. Melt-extruded Curcumin (9.35% w/w (400 mg/kg body weight (BW))
and Vitamin K2 (0.2% w/w (500 mg/kg BW)) were administered daily by oral gavage beginning
one week before surgery and continuing up to 8 weeks after surgery. An aqueous solution of
0.25% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) (5 ml/kg BW) was used as the vehicle control. The
animals in the intervention groups were fed modified rat chow diet enriched with calcium
carbonate (1%) and Vitamin D3 (1000 IU/kg). The rat chow diet contained approximately 22%
by weight crude protein to provide a daily amount of approximately 6 grams of crude protein,
which is an adequate amount of protein to meet the nutritional requirements of the rats. The diet
regime lasted for 9 weeks, starting 1 week before surgery, and for 8 weeks after surgery. In vivo
DXA scans of the lumbar vertebra was carried out before surgery, 3 weeks after surgery, and 8
weeks after surgery. The animals were sacrificed 8 weeks after surgery. The right femur and the
fourth and fifth vertebrae (L4, L5) were collected for biomechanical testing and BMD
measurement by Micro-CT analysis.
[00163] Biomechanical Testing - Biomechanical testing was performed using an MTS 858 test
system (MTS System, Minneapolis, MN) and its associated software: control system software
(793 System SW V0.5E P/N 100-199-969) and Test Work software (TestWorks Servo Hydraulic
Application V4.08E P/N 100-189-048). Frozen bone samples, preserved at -200° C, were
thawed at 40° C the night before tests were performed. The flesh was cleaned from excised
femurs. Three point bending test of the femoral shaft was conducted with a lower span of 15
mm and force applied at 6 mm/min upon the midpoint of the femoral shaft until the complete
break. The load and displacement data were analyzed to identify the maximum load and ultimate
load to failure of the femoral shaft.
[00164] In vivo DXA Scan of the Lumbar Vertebrae - In vivo DXA scans were performed on a
QDR X-Ray Bone Densitometer (Hologic, Inc., Waltham, MA) using the small animal regional
high resolution software with the system. Animals were anesthetized to effect and placed on the
scanning platform in a supine position. The region of interest for the analysis was the lumbar
vertebrae (L2-L5).
[00165] Micro-Computed Tomography (Micro-CT) Analysis - Right distal femur and fifth
lumbar vertebra were scanned for 3-D reconstructed bone volume and bone mineral density
(BMD) by a micro-CT system (eXplore Locus, GE, London, Ontario, Canada), at 100 kV and at
27 mih voxel resolution with a field of view (FOV) up to 80 mm in diameter. The Locus system
used an X-ray detector with a kV range of 35-80, and a mA range of 0-500. The specific voltage
and the current data were automatically set after selecting the resolution and were recorded
during sample analysis. Visualization and data reconstruction were performed using the standard
eXplore MicroView™ software (GE Medical System) and eXplore Reconstruction Utility
software (GE Medical System), respectively. Using these software packages, the area from the
cancellous bone area of the distal femur and vertebra were scanned and the trabecular bone
volume was derived in proportion to the bone tissue area. The region of interest (ROI) was 1
mm from the growth plate and 2 mm down that included only trabecular bone. For BMD
analysis with micro-CT, the machine was calibrated with a phantom to the known
calcium/phosphate ratio so that bone mineral content (BMC) was the absolute number of mineral
content and BMD was mineral content divided by the total area included in the analysis.
[00166] Results - As can be seen from the data, at the time of sacrifice (i.e., 8 weeks after
ovariectomization), the rats that received a diet supplemented with Curcumin, Vitamin K2,
Vitamin D3, and calcium showed a significant improvement in bone strength and BMD. For
example, the Ovx rats that received Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium had an
average maximal load of the femur of 213 N, which was statistically significant (p<0.05)
compared to the maximal load of 198 N measured for the Ovx rats that received Vitamin D3 and
calcium, as seen in FIG. 3. Moreover, the difference in maximal load for the Ovx rats that
received Vitamin D3 and calcium (198 N) was statistically significant compared to the Ovx rats
that received vehicle only.
[00167] As seen in FIG. 4, the Ovx rats that received Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and
calcium had an average ultimate load to failure of the femur of 210 N, which was statistically
significant (p<0.05) compared to the ultimate load to failure of 163 N for the Ovx rats that
received vehicle only. Accordingly, the data of FIGS. 1 and 2 demonstrate that the combination
of Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium can significantly improve bone strength.
[00168] Referring now to FIG. 5, the average BMD of lumbar vertebrae (L4-L5) for each
group of rats prior to ovariectomization was 0.25 g/cm . As seen in FIG. 5, the Ovx rats that
received Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium had an average BMD of lumbar
vertebrae of 0.29 g/cm , which was statistically significant (p<0.05) compared to the average
BMD of lumbar vertebrae of 0.23 g/cm for the Ovx rats that received only vehicle.
[00169] As seen in FIG. 6, the average BMD of the femur and lumbar vertebrae (L5) for Ovx
rats that received Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium showed a significant
improvement with respect to the Ovx rats that received only vehicle. For example, the Ovx rats
that received Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium had an average femur BMD of
636 mg/cc and an average L5 BMD of 596 mg/cc, which were statistically significant compared
to the average femur BMD of 467 mg/cc and average L5 BMD of 485 mg/cc of the Ovx rats that
received only vehicle. Accordingly, the data of FIGS. 5 and 6 demonstrate that the combination
of Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium can significantly improve BMD.
Example 12
[00170] In this Example, a study was conducted to determine the effects on joint health of a
combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 along with a diet enriched with Vitamin D3 and
calcium.
[00171] To model postmenopausal osteoarthritis, animals were ovariectomized (Ovx) and joint
instability was induced by anterior cruciate ligament tear (ACLT) surgery in the left knee.
Thirty-four female Sprague-Dawley rats, age about 5 months, were allocated to 4 groups of 6 to
12 animals each, as shown in Table 7 below. Melt-extruded Curcumin (9.35% w/w (400 mg/kg
body weight (BW))) and Vitamin K2 (0.2%> w/w (500 mg/kg BW)) were administered daily by
oral gavage beginning one week before surgery and continuing up to 8 weeks after surgery. An
aqueous solution of 0.25%> carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) (5 ml/kg BW) was used as the
vehicle control. The animals in the intervention groups were fed modified rat chow diet enriched
with calcium carbonate (1%) and vitamin D3 (1000 IU/kg). The diet regime lasted for 9 weeks,
starting 1 week before surgery, and for 8 weeks after surgery. The animals were sacrificed 8
weeks after surgery.
[00172] Surgery - Animals were anesthetized with a solution containing Ketamine/Diazepam
at a dose of 20-30 mg/kg (i.p.) each. Further anesthesia with 2.0-3.5% isoflurane to effect with a
0.8-1.5 liter flow rate of oxygen was applied during the surgery.
[00173] Bilateral ovariectomy was performed from a low abdominal approach. The skin was
surgically cleaned, shaved, and incised at the low abdominal midline. The abdominal muscles
were incised to enter the abdominal cavity. The freely movable peri-ovarian fat containing the
right ovary and uterine horn was grasped with forceps and exteriorized. The uterine horn was
occluded with a double knot suture several millimeters caudal to the Fallopian tube. After
crushing the ovarian blood vessels with a hemostat, the ligated portion of uterine horn and periovarian
fat with the enclosed ovary were cut with a dissecting scissors and removed. The
remaining tissue was released from the hemostat and muscle. The incision was closed with
single interrupted suture. The entire procedure was repeated on left side. The low abdominal
midline skin incision was closed with three or four wound clips. For Sham animals, ovarian
tissue was externalized but not excised.
[00174] After ovariectomization (Ovx) surgery, the animals were immediately subject to
surgically induced joint disability by Anterior Cruciate Ligament Transection (ACLT) in the left
knee. The left hind limb of each rat around the knee region was shaved and cleaned with 2%
iodine tincture and 75% ethanol. An approximately 1 cm long incision was made to the medial
side of the knee on the skin. The patella was displaced outside the groove to expose the anterior
cruciate ligament. The ligament was transected by a pair of scissors or surgical blade. The
surgical wound was irrigated with sterile saline after the procedures. The fascia was closed with
absorbable sutures, while a non-absorbable monofilament suture material was used to close the
skin incisions.
[00175] Administration - Vehicle and test articles were administered via oral gavage on a daily
basis. The amount of the test articles given was based on the up-to-date body weight, which was
measured once per week. The treatment started one week before the surgery, and continued up
to 8 weeks after surgery.
[00176] Histology Preparation and Histopathology Evaluation - At the end of 8 weeks postsurgery,
all animals were euthanized by C0 2. The left knee of each animal was dissected out and
preserved in 10% buffered formalin and stored at room temperature for histology. The left knee
joint was decalcified, embedded in paraffin, sectioned, and stained with toluidine blue and
Safranin O. The assessment of each joint was carried out using a modified Mankin's scoring
system for severity of articular cartilage degeneration and other tissue changes. The modified
Mankin's scoring system is shown in Table 8. In the modified Mankin scoring system, a higher
score is indicative of a more severely damaged or degenerated joint, while a score that is close to
zero is indicative of a normal or non-degenerated joint.
TABLE 8
( t n- stn ( muting Sc r?
Some fibrocartilage, mostly non-chondrocytic cells 4
Mostly fibrocartilage 3
I. Nature of predominant
Mixed hyaline and fibrocartilage 2
tissue
Mostly hyaline cartilage 1
Hyaline cartilage 0
II. Structural CharacteristICS
Severe disruption, including fibrillation 4
Moderate disruption 3
A. Surface regularity Mild fissure 2
Superficial horizontal lamination 1
Smooth and intact 0
Severe disintegration 4
Moderate to severe disruption 3
B. Structural integrity Moderate disruption, including cysts 2
Mild disruption 1
Normal 0
III. Freedom from Cellulai
Changes of Degeneration in
Chondrocyte
70%-100% of cells 4
50% to 70% of cells 3
A. Chondrocyte clustering 20% to 40% of cells 2
< 10% of cells 1
No clusters 0
Severe reduced proteoglycan staining and/or Chondrocyte degeneration /necrosis 4
Moderate to severe reduced proteoglycan staining and/or Chondrocyte 3
degeneration/necrosis
IV. Degenerative changes i
Moderate reduced proteoglycan staining and/or Chondrocyte 2
cartilage
degeneration/necrosis
Mild reduced proteoglycan staining and/or Chondrocyte degeneration/n ecrosis 1
Normal cartilage 0
V. Joint Area
Severe 4
Moderate to severe 3
A. Inflammatory response in
Moderate 2
joint region
Mild 1
None 0
[00177] Results - As can be seen from Figs. 7-9, at the time of sacrifice {i.e., 8 weeks after
surgery), the rats that received a diet supplemented with Curcumin and Vitamin K2 showed a
significant improvement in joint health. For example, as seen in FIG. 7, the Ovx + ACLT rats
that received a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2, along with a diet enriched in Vitamin
D3 and calcium, had lower Modified Mankin's scores as compared to the Ovx + ACLT rats that
received only the CMC vehicle, along with a diet enriched in Vitamin D3 and calcium, in the
following categories: inflammatory response (0.9 vs. 0.38); neovascularization (1.1 vs. 0.62);
degenerated cartilage (1.1 vs. 0.69); predominant tissue (0.9 vs. 0.46); and osteophytes (2.1 vs.
1.46). Notably, the differences between the Modified Mankin's scores of the Ovx + ACLT rats
that received a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2, along with a diet enriched in Vitamin
D3 and calcium, and the Ovx + ACLT rats that received only the CMC vehicle, along with a diet
enriched in Vitamin D3 and calcium, were statistically significant (p<0.05). Moreover, as seen
in FIG. 8, the total osteoarthritic score, as represented by the total Modified Mankin's score, was
statistically significantly lower (p<0.05) in the Ovx + ACLT rats that received a combination of
Curcumin and Vitamin K2 (along with a Vitamin D3 and calcium enriched diet) (total score of
10.5) as compared to the Ovx + ACLT rats that received only the CMC vehicle (along with a
Vitamin D3 and calcium enriched diet) (total score of 8.08).
[00178] Referring now to FIG. 9, histology images of two knee joints are shown. The
histology images of FIGS. 9A and 9B are representative of the Ovx + ACLT rats that received
CMC vehicle (along with a Vitamin D3 and calcium enriched diet). FIG. 9B is a magnified
image of FIG. 9A, which shows cartilage erosion at the joint (shown with arrow) and other
degradative changes of the Ovx + ACLT rat that received the CMC vehicle. On the other hand,
the histology images of FIGS. 9C and 9D are representative of the Ovx + ACLT rats that
received a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 (along with a Vitamin D3 and calcium
enriched diet). FIG. 9D is a magnified image of FIG. 9C, and indicates that Ovx + ACLT rats
that received a combination of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 (along with a Vitamin D3 and calcium
enriched diet) had less cartilage erosion and other degradative changes as compared to the Ovx +
ACLT rats that received the CMC vehicle shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B.
[00179] To the extent that the term "includes" or "including" is used in the specification or the
claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as that term is
interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Furthermore, to the extent that the
term "or" is employed (e.g., A or B) it is intended to mean "A or B or both." When the applicants
intend to indicate "only A or B but not both" then the term "only A or B but not both" will be
employed. Thus, use of the term "or" herein is the inclusive, and not the exclusive use. Also, to
the extent that the terms "in" or "into" are used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to
additionally mean "on" or "onto." Furthermore, to the extent the term "connect" is used in the
specification or claims, it is intended to mean not only "directly connected to," but also
"indirectly connected to" such as connected through another component or components.
[00180] While the present disclosure illustrates the general inventive concepts by describing
various exemplary embodiments thereof, and while such embodiments may be described in
considerable detail, the exemplary embodiments are not intended to restrict or in any way limit
the scope of the general inventive concepts, including the appended claims, to such detail.
Additional advantages and modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.
Therefore, the general inventive concepts, in their broader aspects, are not limited to the specific
details, the representative compositions and methods, or the illustrative examples shown and
described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the
spirit or scope of the general inventive concepts.

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A composition comprising Curcumin and Vitamin K2 for use in treating or preventing
osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, osteopenia, or osteoporosis in
an individual in need thereof.
2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition comprises about 0.001%
to about 3.4% of Curcumin by weight of the composition and about 0.0001% to about 0.1% of
Vitamin K2 by weight of the composition.
3. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the Curcumin is bioavailable Curcumin
and the Vitamin K2 is menaquinone-7.
4. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the individual in need thereof is a human.
5. The composition according to claim 4, wherein the individual in need thereof is a
menopausal or postmenopausal woman.
6. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises
Vitamin D3 and calcium.
7. The composition according to claim 6, wherein the composition comprises, per serving or
dose, about 160 IU to about 1,000 IU of Vitamin D3 and about 150 milligrams to about 800
milligrams of calcium.
8. The composition according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the composition further
comprises at least one source of protein.
9. The composition according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the composition further
comprises at least one source of carbohydrate.
10. The composition according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the composition further
comprises at least one source of fat.
11. The composition according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the composition further
comprises about 1% to about 30% of at least one source of protein by weight of the composition,
about 10% to about 80%> of at least one source of carbohydrate by weight of the composition,
and about 0.5% to about 30% fat by weight of the composition.
12. The composition according to claim 11, wherein the composition is a liquid nutritional
product.
13. The composition according to claim 11, wherein the composition is a reconstitutable
powder.
14. The composition according to claim 11, wherein the composition is a solid nutritional
product.
15. A nutritional composition comprising :
about 1% to about 30% of at least one source of protein by weight of the nutritional
composition;
about 0.001% to about 3.4% of Curcumin by weight of the nutritional composition; and
about 0.0001% to about 0.1% of Vitamin K2 by weight of the nutritional composition.
16. The nutritional composition according to claim 15, wherein the nutritional composition
further comprises, per serving or dose, about 160 IU to about 1,000 IU of Vitamin D3 and about
150 milligrams to about 1,000 milligrams of calcium.
17. The nutritional composition according to any one of claims 15-16, wherein the Curcumin
is bioavailable curcumin and the Vitamin K2 is menaquinone-7.
18. A method for maintaining bone quality in an individual in need thereof, the method
comprising:
administering to the individual in need thereof a nutritional composition comprising at
least one source of protein in an amount sufficient to provide about 5 grams to about 50 grams of
protein per serving, and effective amounts of Curcumin, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and calcium;
whereby the bone quality of the subject is maintained upon consumption of the
nutritional composition.
19. Use of Curcumin and Vitamin K2 in the preparation of a nutritional composition for
treating or preventing osteoarthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis,
osteopenia, or osteoporosis.
20. The use according to claim 19, wherein the composition comprises about 0.001% to
about 3.4% of Curcumin by weight of the composition and about 0.000 1% to about 0.1% of
Vitamin K2 by weight of the composition.
2 1. The use according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the Curcumin is bioavailable Curcumin and
the Vitamin K2 is menaquinone-7.
22. The use according to any one of claims 19-21, wherein the composition further comprises
Vitamin D3 and calcium.
23. The use according to claim 22, wherein the composition comprises, per serving or dose,
about 160 IU to about 1,000 IU of Vitamin D3 and about 150 milligrams to about 800 milligrams
of calcium.
24. The use according to any one of claims 19-23, wherein the composition further comprises
one or more of at least one source of protein, at least one source of carbohydrate and at least one
source of fat.
25. The use according to any one of claims 19-24, wherein the composition further comprises
about 1% to about 30% of at least one source of protein by weight of the composition, about
10% to about 80%o of at least one source of carbohydrate by weight of the composition, and
about 0 .5% to about 30%> fat by weight of the composition.
26. The composition according to any one of claims 19-25, wherein the composition is a
liquid nutritional product, a reconstitutable powder or a solid nutritional product.