Activating collagen with Greespi: scientifically proven effect...

What Is Collagen and Why Is It Important for the Skin and Body?

Collagen is a fibrous protein that forms the foundation of connective tissue and is the most abundant protein in the human body. It was first identified and described as a key component of the skin in the early 20th century, but only with the advancement of biochemistry did its critical role in skin structure, strength, and elasticity become fully understood.

It forms the "scaffolding" of our connective tissue, making up the skin, tendons, bones, cartilage, blood vessels, and even the cornea of the eye.

In the skin, collagen forms a dense network that ensures:

• Firmness and elasticity (so the skin can stretch and return to shape),

• Structural integrity of the dermis (the deeper skin layer),

• Rapid healing of wounds and cuts,

• Protection against wrinkle formation.

The main type of collagen in the skin is type I collagen—it’s responsible for the skin’s smoothness and density.

Modern research focuses not only on topical collagen application but also on finding nutrients that stimulate its natural synthesis. One such discovery is that certain natural proteins, including raw Arthrospira protein, can activate signaling pathways related to collagen renewal.

How Is Collagen Produced in the Skin?

Collagen is produced by skin cells called fibroblasts. These cells operate in the dermis (the deeper layer of the skin) and synthesize collagen, elastin, and other extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins—essentially a structural framework that supports the skin from within.

Collagen synthesis isn’t just a simple "assembly" of proteins—it’s a complex, multi-step process that requires specific resources. Most importantly, it needs raw materials: amino acids. The most crucial ones include glycine (about one-third of the collagen structure), proline (up to 25%), and lysine. These amino acids make up the characteristic sequences in collagen fibers. Proline and lysine then undergo hydroxylation, a chemical modification that stabilizes the collagen molecule. This process depends on certain cofactors:

• Vitamin C (ascorbate) — activates the enzymes prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase,

• Iron (Fe²⁺) and copper (Cu²⁺) — assist in hydroxylation reactions,

• Zinc (Zn²⁺) — involved in ECM remodeling as a cofactor for MMP enzymes.

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

Without these nutrients, the body cannot produce strong, stable collagen.

Collagen ≠ amino acids. Collagen is a complex protein that the body synthesizes on its own. You can't simply consume it in its final form and expect instant effects on your skin. To build its own collagen, the body needs the right building blocks. That’s why supporting your body’s own collagen production is more effective than just consuming collagen supplements.

Why Does Collagen Break Down and What Affects It?

With age or due to external factors, fibroblasts "wear out" and produce less collagen. On top of that, enzymes that degrade collagen become more active. One of these enzymes is matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8)—it specifically breaks down type I collagen.

Key factors that lower collagen levels:

• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation (sunlight) — triggers destructive enzymes and oxidative stress,

• Chronic inflammation in the skin,

• Stress, smoking, alcohol — increase free radical activity,

• Sugar — glycation products damage protein structure,

• Aging — receptor activity declines, reducing collagen production.

Greespi is a functional nutrition product with a high content of raw Arthrospira protein—71 grams per 100 grams of biomass. But it’s not just about the amount of protein. Researchers from Korea and China have found that this specific protein (labeled SPCP in studies) has powerful bioactive effects.

➡️ Key SPCP benefits (Liu et al., 2018):

• Enhances fibroblast viability—stimulates their activity and longevity,

• Reduces elastase activity—an enzyme that breaks down elastin (another skin structural protein),

• Decreases MMP-8 levels—protects collagen from degradation,

• Activates the EGFR/MAPK signaling pathway—boosts collagen production.

What Is the EGFR/MAPK Signaling Pathway and Why Is It Important?

Our cells "listen" to their environment through surface receptors. One such receptor is EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor). When activated (for example, by SPCP protein), it triggers a complex internal signaling cascade—MAPK/ERK.

This pathway:

• Activates genes responsible for cell growth and division,

• Stimulates collagen production,

• Boosts cell regeneration,

• Slows down aging processes.

So, Greespi doesn’t just provide raw materials for collagen—it activates the actual mechanism that produces it.

Why Greespi Works

1.High Protein Bioavailability

Native proteins with unaltered structures allow better absorption and higher utilization by the body.

2.Antioxidant Protection

Greespi contains a unique blend of antioxidants—phycocyanin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and tocopherols—which reduce oxidative stress and protect skin cells.

Conclusion: How to Preserve Collagen and Youthful Skin

Collagen is more than just a trendy skincare ingredient—it’s the foundation of health and beauty. To maintain it:

• Protect your skin from sun exposure,

• Manage stress and sugar intake,

• Provide your body with quality protein and antioxidants.

Greespi is a modern functional product with active proteins, its own antioxidant system, and scientifically proven effects. It’s an ideal solution for maintaining youthful, healthy skin.

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.