Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Mar 20, 2026 1 hour, 56 minutes ago
Thailand Medical: A new scientific study from Thailand is shedding light on a surprising natural compound that could help manage high blood pressure. Researchers have discovered that hydrolyzed collagen derived from salmon skin may significantly reduce hypertension while also protecting blood vessels from damage.
Salmon-derived collagen shows potential in reducing hypertension and protecting blood vessels
This
Thailand Medical News report explores how this simple protein, often considered a byproduct of seafood processing, could offer meaningful benefits for cardiovascular health.
Researchers and Institutions Involved
The research was carried out by scientists from the Department of Anatomy and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand; the Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Thailand; and the International Center of Excellence in Seafood Science and Innovation, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand.
Understanding the Role of Collagen
Hydrolyzed collagen is a processed form of collagen broken down into smaller particles, making it easier for the body to absorb and use. Salmon skin is particularly rich in these bioactive peptides, which are known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Until now, collagen has mostly been associated with skin health and joint support. However, this study reveals its potential to support heart and blood vessel function in a significant way.
How the Study Was Performed
To better understand its effects, researchers used a controlled experiment involving rats with induced high blood pressure. The condition was created by blocking nitric oxide production, a key factor that helps blood vessels relax.
The animals were then treated with either low or high doses of salmon collagen, or a standard blood pressure medication for comparison. The treatments lasted several weeks, allowing researchers to closely monitor changes.
Significant Reduction in Blood Pressure
The findings showed that rats receiving a higher dose of hydrolyzed collagen experienced a noticeable reduction in blood pressure. While levels did not fully return to normal, the decrease was meaningful and comparable to the effects seen with the pharmaceutical drug.
Additionally, collagen treatment helped prevent abnormal increases in heart rate, suggesting a stabilizing effect on cardiovascular function.
Improved Blood Vessel Function
Healthy blood vessels need to expand and contract properly. In untreated rats, this function was impaired due to hypertension. However, collagen-treated rats showed much better vascular relaxation.
This improvement was linked to increased levels of nitric oxide, which plays a crucial role in keeping blood vessels flexible and
reducing pressure on the heart.
Lower Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Hypertension is often accompanied by increased oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which can damage blood vessels over time. The study found that collagen significantly reduced harmful oxidative molecules and lowered inflammation-related markers.
Proteins associated with vascular inflammation were also reduced, indicating that collagen helps address the root causes of blood vessel damage.
Protection Against Structural Damage
Another important finding was the improvement in blood vessel structure. In hypertensive rats, blood vessel walls became thicker and stiffer, a condition linked to long-term cardiovascular disease.
Collagen treatment reduced this thickening and prevented excessive buildup of fibrous tissue. It also lowered levels of proteins involved in scarring and vessel stiffening, helping preserve normal vessel function.
A Promising Natural Approach
The results suggest that hydrolyzed collagen from salmon skin could serve as a natural supplement for supporting cardiovascular health. Its ability to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and protect blood vessels makes it a compelling option for further research.
Importantly, the study reported no harmful side effects, highlighting its potential safety.
Conclusion
The findings from this study provide encouraging evidence that hydrolyzed collagen derived from salmon skin may play a meaningful role in managing hypertension. By improving nitric oxide production, reducing oxidative stress, calming inflammation, and preventing harmful changes in blood vessel structure, it offers a multi-layered benefit that goes beyond simple blood pressure reduction. While additional human studies are necessary, this research opens the door to new possibilities in using natural compounds as supportive therapies for cardiovascular health.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/27/6/2805
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/diets-and-nutrition
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/health-news
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