Chondroitin Sulphate (CAS 9007-28-7) — Bulk Supply | Xi’an Taima Biological Co., Ltd.

Product Introduction

Chondroitin Sulphate (CS, CAS 9007-28-7) is a naturally occurring sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) that forms the structural backbone of articular cartilage and connective tissue throughout the body. As a major component of the proteoglycan aggrecan, chondroitin sulphate is essential for the mechanical resilience, water retention, and shock-absorbing capacity of cartilage. It exists naturally in the extracellular matrix of cartilage, bone, skin, cornea, and blood vessel walls.

Product Identification

Parameter	Information
Product Name	Chondroitin Sulphate (Chondroitin Sulfate)
CAS Number	9007-28-7
EC Number	232-696-9
Chemical Class	Sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG)
Molecular Formula (repeat unit)	(C14H21NO14S)n
Average Molecular Weight	14,000–30,000 Da (commercial grade); MW varies by source
Primary Source	Bovine tracheal cartilage (Bos taurus)
Secondary Source	Porcine nasal cartilage, shark cartilage (marine)
Physical Appearance	White to off-white fine powder
Odor	Odorless to slightly characteristic
Solubility	Freely soluble in water; insoluble in ethanol, acetone
pH (1% solution)	6.0–7.5
Hygroscopicity	Hygroscopic — absorbs moisture; keep sealed
Storage Conditions	Cool, dry; below 25°C; humidity ≤60%; protect from moisture
Shelf Life	24 months from manufacture date

 Applications

Application	Product Forms	Typical Dosage	Recommended Grade
Oral Supplements	Capsules, tablets, soft chews, powders, sachets	800–1,200 mg/day CS (commonly 400–600 mg twice daily with meals)	CS-90 Bovine, CS-95 Pharma
Pharmaceutical OTC	Film-coated tablets, hard capsules, liquid formulations	800–1,200 mg/day; single or divided doses	CS-95 Pharma (USP/EP/BP)
Injectable Pharmaceuticals	Sterile IV/IM injection solutions	Per clinical protocol; typically 100–400 mg/injection	CS-95 Pharma (pharmaceutical-grade)
Ophthalmic Solutions	Eye drops, artificial tear formulations	0.5–2.0% CS in ophthalmic buffer solution	CS-95 Pharma (ultra-pure)
Topical Formulations	Creams, gels, joint patches, serums	2–10% CS in topical base	CS-90 Food/Nutra
Pet & Veterinary	Dog/cat chews, pet tablets, veterinary supplements	Dogs: 200–500 mg/day (weight-dependent); Cats: 100–200 mg/day	CS-90 Bovine/Marine
Functional Foods	Fortified beverages, nutrition bars, dairy products	200–400 mg per serving	CS-90 Food Grade
Wound Care / Medical Devices	Wound dressings, surgical meshes, tissue engineering	Per device formulation specifications	CS-95 Pharma

FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between Chondroitin Sulphate 90% and 95%?

The percentage refers to the chondroitin sulphate content as measured by HPLC or pharmacopoeia-validated viscometry. CS-90% (≥90% purity) is the standard nutraceutical/food-grade specification, suitable for dietary supplements and functional foods. CS-95% (≥95% purity) is the pharmaceutical grade, compliant with USP, EP, and BP pharmacopoeias, used in prescription/OTC pharmaceutical products, injectables, and ophthalmic formulations. The higher-purity grade has lower protein content (≤1.0% vs ≤3.0%), lower ash, and tighter specifications across all parameters.

Q2: What is the recommended daily dose of Chondroitin Sulphate for joint health?

The clinically validated dose for osteoarthritis management is 800–1,200 mg of chondroitin sulphate per day, typically taken as 400–600 mg twice daily with meals. This dose range was used in the major clinical trials including GAIT, MOSAIC, and CONCEPT. It is commonly combined with glucosamine (1,500 mg/day HCl or sulfate). For preventive joint support or mild symptoms, 400–800 mg/day is often used. For pets: dogs typically receive 200–500 mg/day based on body weight (consult a veterinarian).

Q3: How does Chondroitin Sulphate compare to glucosamine for joint health?

CS and glucosamine work through complementary mechanisms and are clinically most effective when combined. Glucosamine is a precursor for glycosaminoglycan synthesis (building block effect), while CS works primarily by inhibiting cartilage-degrading enzymes (MMPs, ADAMTS) and suppressing NF-κB-driven inflammation. The landmark GAIT trial showed the combination was more effective than either alone for moderate-severe knee OA pain relief (combining 1,500 mg glucosamine + 1,200 mg CS). Most modern joint health supplements include both at their clinically studied doses.

Q4: What are the differences between bovine, porcine, and marine-sourced Chondroitin Sulphate?

Bovine CS (from cattle trachea) is the most researched source, with the largest body of clinical evidence. It predominantly contains CS-A (chondroitin-4-sulfate) and CS-C (chondroitin-6-sulfate). Porcine CS (from pig nasal cartilage/trachea) has a similar composition to bovine and is often used as a lower-cost alternative. Marine CS (shark/ray/squid fin cartilage) is the preferred option for halal compliance or BSE/TSE risk avoidance; it often has a higher proportion of CS-C and may contain unique sulfation patterns (CS-D, CS-E). Clinically, all sources have demonstrated comparable efficacy in head-to-head comparison studies.

Q5: Is Chondroitin Sulphate safe? Are there any contraindications?

Chondroitin sulphate has an excellent long-term safety record backed by decades of clinical use. The GAIT trial (4-year follow-up) confirmed a safety profile comparable to placebo. Known considerations: (1) Anticoagulant interaction: CS has mild anticoagulant properties; patients on warfarin or other blood thinners should monitor INR and consult their physician; (2) Shellfish allergy: Some CS preparations may be derived from marine sources — verify source with supplier for shellfish-allergic individuals; (3) Pregnancy/lactation: Insufficient safety data; use under medical supervision; (4) Diabetes: CS may slightly enhance insulin activity — diabetic patients should monitor blood glucose. No serious drug interactions documented at standard therapeutic doses.

Q6: What is BSE/TSE compliance and why is it important for bovine CS?

Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs) are prion diseases that affected cattle populations in the 1980s–90s. Because chondroitin sulphate is extracted from bovine cartilage, regulatory authorities (particularly EU, FDA) require documentation confirming the source animals were BSE/TSE-free. Our bovine CS is sourced from cattle herds in BSE-controlled countries (China, certified farms), with animal health certificates, slaughter records, and EU Annex VI compliance documentation provided per batch. This is critical for EU pharmaceutical product registrations.