Activating collagen with Greespi: scientifically proven effect

What is collagen and why is it important for skin and the body?

Collagen is a fibrillar protein that forms the foundation of connective tissue and is the most abundant protein in the human body. Although first identified in the early 20th century, it wasn’t until the advancement of biochemistry that we fully understood its crucial role in the structure, strength, and elasticity of the skin.

Collagen acts as the scaffolding for connective tissues—skin, tendons, bones, cartilage, blood vessels, and even the cornea of the eye.

In the skin, collagen creates a dense network responsible for:

• Elasticity and resilience, allowing skin to stretch and bounce back;

• Integrity of the dermis, the skin’s deeper layer;

• Rapid healing of wounds and injuries;

• Protection against wrinkle formation.

Type I collagen is the primary form found in skin, providing smoothness and density.

How is collagen formed in the skin?

Collagen is synthesized by fibroblasts—cells located in the dermis. These fibroblasts produce collagen, elastin, and other proteins of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which maintain the skin’s shape and strength.

The collagen synthesis process is complex and multi-step, requiring adequate building blocks—amino acids—particularly glycine (about one-third of the structure), proline (up to 25%), and lysine. Proline and lysine undergo a modification called hydroxylation, which stabilizes the collagen molecule.

This process requires cofactors:

• Vitamin C (ascorbate), which activates the enzymes prolyl- and lysyl-hydroxylase;

• Iron (Fe²⁺) and copper (Cu²⁺), which assist hydroxylation;

• Zinc (Zn²⁺), which supports remodeling of the extracellular matrix via MMP enzymes.

In Greespi, zinc and iron are present in highly bioavailable organic forms—especially important for vegans and those with mineral absorption issues.

Collagen is not just a protein you eat

Collagen is a complex protein synthesized by the body. It should not be treated as a simple nutrient that instantly impacts the skin. Supporting the natural collagen synthesis by supplying the body with the right amino acids and cofactors is far more effective.

Why does collagen break down?

With age and exposure to external factors, fibroblast activity declines, while collagen-degrading enzymes become more active. One key enzyme is matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8), which specifically breaks down type I collagen.

Factors that weaken collagen include:

• Ultraviolet radiation — triggers oxidative stress and enhances destructive enzyme activity;
• Chronic skin inflammation;
• Stress, smoking, alcohol — promote free radical processes;
• Sugar — glycation products damage protein structures;
• Aging — reduced receptor activity that stimulates collagen production.

What makes Greespi unique: more than just protein

Greespi is cryostabilized Arthrospira biomass with a high protein content—71% per 100g. But quantity alone isn’t enough; protein quality matters.

Research from Korea and China has shown that Arthrospira protein (referred to as SPCP) has significant bioactivity (Liu et al., 2018):

• Improves fibroblast viability, boosting their activity;

• Reduces elastase activity, an enzyme that degrades elastin;

• Lowers MMP-8 levels, protecting collagen from breakdown;

• Activates the EGFR/MAPK signaling pathway, stimulating collagen production.

What is the EGFR/MAPK signaling pathway and why does it matter?

Cells “listen” to their environment via surface receptors. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), when activated by SPCP protein, initiates a cascade of signals—the MAPK/ERK pathway.

This pathway:

• Activates genes related to cell growth and division;

• Stimulates collagen synthesis;

• Enhances cellular repair capabilities;

• Reduces aging processes.
  
  

Thus, Greespi doesn’t just supply amino acids; it activates the body’s own collagen production mechanisms.

Why is Greespi effective?

High protein bioavailability
Native proteins preserved in their natural structure ensure better absorption.

Antioxidant protection
Greespi contains unique antioxidants—phycoerythrin, superoxide dismutase, and tocopherols—that reduce oxidative stress and protect skin cells.

In summary: support collagen — support youthfulness

Collagen is the foundation of healthy, resilient skin with a youthful appearance.
To support its synthesis:

• Protect skin from sun exposure;

• Manage stress and sugar intake;

• Provide your body with sufficient protein and antioxidants.

Greespi is a modern functional product with scientifically validated effects, naturally supporting skin youthfulness and health.

References:

1. Liu, H., Liu, Y., Li, Z., Chen, J., & Wang, W. (2018). Raw Arthrospira Protein Enhances Human Skin Fibroblast Viability via EGFR/MAPK Signaling Pathway. International Journal of Molecular Medicine, 42(6), 3227–3236.

2. Ricard-Blum, S. (2011). The Collagen Family. Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology, 3(1), a004978.

3. Karsdal, M. A., Leeming, D. J., & Bay-Jensen, A. C. (2017). Collagen Biology, Biochemistry and Clinical Implications. Advances in Drug Delivery Reviews, 121, 43–50.

4. Shoulders, M. D., & Raines, R. T. (2009). Collagen Structure and Stability. Annual Review of Biochemistry, 78, 929–958.

5. Varani, J., et al. (2006). Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin: Roles of Age-Dependent Alteration in Fibroblast Function and Defective Mechanical Stimulation. The American Journal of Pathology, 168(6), 1861–1868.

6. Watson, R. E. B., et al. (2014). Matrix Metalloproteinases and Skin Ageing. Experimental Dermatology, 23(3), 157–159. 

7. Pullar, J. M., Carr, A. C., & Vissers, M. C. M. (2017). The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients, 9(8), 866.

8. Kligman, L. H. (1989). The Photodamage and Photoaging of Skin. The Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology, 15(9), 1068–1073.