Method for evaluating articular joint therapeutics

Abstract

The invention provides a method for determining the efficacy of compositions used to treat articular joint conditions in mammals. The method includes measuring the change in levels of one or more cartilage degradation biomarkers in a mammal from before exercise and after exercise, then administering a composition used to treat articular joint conditions to the mammal, and measuring the change in levels of one or more cartilage degradation biomarkers in the mammal from before exercise and after exercise.

1 - 19 . (canceled) 
     
     
         20 . A test kit for determining the efficacy of a composition used to treat articular joint conditions in mammals, wherein the test kit comprises (i) a means for collecting a sample from an individual, (ii) a means for testing the sample for one or more cartilage degradation and/or synthesis biomarkers, (iii) and a means for quantification of the one or more cartilage degradation and/or synthesis biomarkers. 
     
     
         21 . The test kit according to  claim 20 , wherein the sample can be urine, saliva or blood. 
     
     
         22 . The test kit according to  claim 20 , wherein the one or more cartilage degradation and/or synthesis biomarkers is c-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type-II collagen (CTX-II). 
     
     
         23 . The test kit according to  claim 20 , wherein the means for testing the sample is an assay. 
     
     
         24 . The test kit according to  claim 23 , wherein the assay s an enzyme linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA).