Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic and progressive musculoskeletal disorder that continues to pose a significant global health challenge. Characterized by the degeneration of articular cartilage, synovial inflammation, subchondral bone remodeling, joint stiffness, and chronic pain, the condition predominantly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine. However, the hands and shoulders are also frequently involved.
According to the Global Burden of Disease assessments referenced in the document (page 2), approximately 595 million individuals worldwide were living with osteoarthritis in 2020, with projections indicating continued growth by 2050. In India, arthritis affects nearly 15% of the population, over 210 million individuals, with this disease being the most prevalent subtype. The condition is merely common among women and individuals aged 55–65 years and above.
Limitations of Conventional Therapies
Despite widespread use of pharmacological treatments such as Diacerein-based drug combinations, concerns remain regarding gastrointestinal intolerance, hepatotoxicity, and long-term safety. Additionally, commonly prescribed therapies like NSAIDs and corticosteroids primarily provide symptomatic relief without addressing cartilage degeneration or restoring joint integrity. These limitations highlight the need for safer, disease-modifying alternatives.
A Scientifically Advanced Biomaterial Approach
Clinically validated formulations based on Natural Egg Shell Membrane (NESM) have emerged as an innovative and biologically rational approach to osteoarthritis management. NESM is a natural biomaterial rich in collagen types I, III, V, and X, along with elastin, glycosaminoglycans, hyaluronic acid, and bioactive peptides. These components collectively support connective tissue strength, cartilage function, and joint resilience.
The formulations demonstrate a multi-targeted mechanism, including modulation of NF-κB-mediated inflammatory pathways and reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β. Clinical findings indicate improvements in joint pain, flexibility, and overall mobility.
Innovation Driven by Scientific Leadership
The development of this technology is led by M. Chandra Mohan, a biotechnology entrepreneur and Founder & CMD of Microcore Research Laboratories India Pvt. Ltd.,. With over 25 years of multidisciplinary expertise, he has developed a patented process that preserves the native molecular structure of eggshell membrane, ensuring its biological integrity and functional efficacy.
Proprietary Technology and Regulatory Validation
Microcore’s proprietary NESM platform, branded as MuttaiJow Complex®, represents a structurally optimized biomaterial designed to maintain extracellular matrix architecture. As the technology preserves collagen–elastin networks and molecular stability, ensuring consistent bioactivity and clinical performance.
The ingredient has received PA-II regulatory approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, authorizing its use with the health claim: “For maintaining healthy joints and connective tissues,” thereby affirming its safety and quality compliance.
Clinical Evidence and Comparative Outcomes
Clinical investigations demonstrate that NESM-based formulations provide comparable, and in certain parameters superior, outcomes when compared with Diacerein-based therapies. Findings include improved gastrointestinal tolerability, enhanced patient compliance, and sustained functional improvement.
These results position NESM as a next-generation, evidence-based, and safety-oriented solution in osteoarthritis care.
Development of JointCore® Formulation
Building on this platform, Microcore developed JointCore®, a synergistic nutraceutical formulation combining NESM with Boswellia serrata extract and curcumin. Each component contributes through complementary mechanisms targeting inflammation, cartilage support, and joint health.
A 12-week randomized clinical study demonstrated significant improvements in pain scores, functional mobility, and inflammatory biomarkers, while maintaining a favorable safety profile with no major adverse effects.
Published Research and Biomarker Outcomes
The study findings, published in the Journal of Current Research in Scientific Medicine reinforces the formulation’s clinical credibility. Additional data indicate reductions in key inflammatory markers such as his-CRP and ESR, alongside improvements in renal and systemic safety parameters.
Expanding the Frontiers of Biomaterial Innovation
Beyond osteoarthritis, Microcore’s research ecosystem encompasses advanced biomaterials, wound healing solutions, hydroxyapatite applications, and fermentation-derived nutraceuticals. The company is also developing a 10-acre integrated biomaterial innovation hub in Tamil Nadu, reinforcing its end-to-end capabilities in research, validation, and commercialization.
A Paradigm Shift in Osteoarthritis Management
Through patented technologies, clinical validation, and a patient-centric approach, the work led by M. Chandra Mohan represents a significant advancement in osteoarthritis care. Clinically validated NESM formulations offer a safe, sustainable, and scientifically robust alternative, shifting the focus from symptomatic treatment toward long-term joint health, structural support, and improved quality of life.
