Peptides, particularly bioactive collagen peptides, are increasingly used to support or treat cartilage damage, and there is a moderate level of scientific evidence supporting their efficacy. Collagen peptides are short chains of amino acids derived from the hydrolysis of collagen, a key structural protein in cartilage. Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have investigated the effects of oral collagen peptide supplementation on joint health, especially in the context of osteoarthritis and exercise-induced cartilage stress.

Studies have shown that collagen peptides can stimulate cartilage matrix synthesis and may help reduce joint pain and improve function in people with cartilage damage or degeneration. For example, a 2018 double-blind placebo-controlled trial published in Current Medical Research and Opinion found that oral collagen peptide supplementation led to significant improvements in joint pain among athletes. Additional research, including in vitro and animal studies, has demonstrated that certain peptides can stimulate chondrocyte activity and inhibit inflammatory pathways involved in cartilage breakdown.

However, while these results are promising, the overall evidence is still considered moderate (rated 3 out of 5), as many studies are limited by small sample sizes, short durations, or industry funding. More large-scale, independent clinical trials are needed to fully establish the therapeutic role of peptides in cartilage repair and protection.