Milk Basic Protein (MBP) is a fraction of whey protein found in bovine milk, comprising various bioactive proteins such as lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, and others. MBP has been studied primarily for its effects on bone health, particularly in the context of osteoporosis prevention. There is emerging, but limited, scientific evidence that MBP may also support the maintenance and repair of cartilage.

Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that MBP may stimulate chondrocyte (cartilage cell) proliferation and inhibit the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone and cartilage breakdown. A few small clinical trials, mostly from Japan, have explored MBP’s effects on bone metabolism markers, but direct evidence for cartilage repair or the treatment of cartilage damage in humans is scant.

The hypothesized mechanism for MBP’s benefit on cartilage is its ability to modulate bone and cartilage matrix metabolism, possibly by increasing the production of type II collagen or by reducing inflammation. However, clinical trials specifically assessing MBP for cartilage damage or osteoarthritis are lacking. Regulatory agencies, such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), have not approved claims for MBP in cartilage health due to insufficient clinical evidence.

In summary, while there is some preliminary scientific rationale and early-stage evidence suggesting potential benefits of MBP for cartilage, robust human clinical trials are lacking. Thus, the current scientific evidence supporting MBP for cartilage damage is weak (rated 2/5).