AminoLock Collagen: Is It Well Absorbed by the Body?

Collagen has become a popular supplement, especially for supporting joint, skin, and connective tissue health. However, not all collagen is created equal when it comes to absorption and effectiveness. Genacol has developed AminoLock Collagen, a form of hydrolyzed collagen designed for optimal absorption. But is it truly well absorbed by the body? Scientific research conducted in partnership with McGill University provides clear answers to this question.

Understanding the Importance of Collagen Absorption

Collagen is an essential protein naturally found in the human body, particularly in joints, skin, and bones. As we age, our body’s natural collagen production decreases, which can lead to joint pain and reduced mobility. Collagen supplements aim to compensate for this decline. However, to be effective, the collagen we consume must be properly absorbed through the digestive system and reach the targeted tissues.

When collagen peptides reach these tissues, they can stimulate the cells responsible for producing collagen, called chondrocytes. This helps to:

Why Aren’t All Forms of Collagen Equal?

There are several types of collagen supplements available on the market. Some are minimally processed, others are hydrolyzed, but not always with rigorous standardization. What’s important to understand is that the size of collagen molecules directly affects their ability to be absorbed by the body. This is referred to as bioavailability.

Native collagen, meaning in its full, unbroken form, has a structure that’s too large to pass through the intestinal wall during digestion. Even some so-called “hydrolyzed” collagens don’t achieve a small enough molecular size to ensure optimal absorption. On average, these products have a molecular weight of 3 to 5 kilodaltons (kDa).

The Genacol Difference

This is where Genacol’s AminoLock Collagen truly stands out. Through a patented sequential enzymatic hydrolysis process, Genacol produces collagen peptides with an ultra-low molecular weight—under 1 kDa. This very small size allows for easier absorption through the intestinal wall during digestion and more efficient metabolization by the liver. The result? A greater potential for action within the body.

Research from McGill University: Demonstrated Superior Bioavailability

In collaboration with Dr. Stan Kubow’s team from the School of Human Nutrition at McGill University, Genacol conducted research to evaluate the bioavailability of AminoLock Collagen. The studies compared the absorption of specific peptides from AminoLock Collagen versus a generic hydrolyzed collagen.

The results showed that several bioactive peptides—such as Pro-Hyp, Gly-Pro, Hyp-Gly, Ala-Hyp, and Gly-Pro-Hyp—are better absorbed and metabolized when sourced from AminoLock Collagen. Notably, the peptide Gly-Pro-Hyp, which is recognized for its benefits to joint health, was only absorbed and detected in the systemic circulation when derived from AminoLock Collagen—not from generic collagen.

This All Sounds Very Scientific… So Let’s Make It More Concrete!

Watch this simple, visual demonstration by Christina, our Director of Research and Development, who clearly shows how AminoLock Collagen stands out when it comes to absorption.

Clinical Studies Support the Effectiveness of AminoLock Collagen

The effectiveness of AminoLock Collagen doesn’t rest on theory alone—it has been demonstrated in several rigorous clinical studies involving individuals with osteoarthritis. Here’s an overview of the findings:

Bruyère Study (2012) – For various types of osteoarthritis

Participants with different forms of osteoarthritis took AminoLock Collagen for six months. The result? A significant reduction in joint pain and improved mobility compared to the placebo group.

Parm Study (2012) – For knee osteoarthritis

In patients with knee osteoarthritis, taking AminoLock Collagen helped reduce pain and improve joint function. The study also found a protective effect on the joint, with slower degradation of the joint space.

Suarez Study (2016) – Combined with exercise

When taken alongside an exercise program, AminoLock Collagen helped participants experience less pain, better quality of life, and positive changes in their joints.

The findings from these studies confirm that AminoLock Collagen is not only well absorbed—it also delivers real, measurable benefits for joint health.

AminoLock Collagen is made from bovine-sourced collagen, without artificial preservatives, gluten, or GMOs. Clinical studies have reported no significant side effects, making it safe for long-term daily use. Its safety profile makes it a great option for people looking to add an effective supplement to their routine, without the risk of unwanted interactions or digestive issues.

In the end, the research conducted in partnership with McGill University and the results from independent clinical studies confirm that Genacol’s AminoLock Collagen is a natural and effective solution to help reduce the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis.