[Are glycosaminoglycans responsible for the therapeutic effect of mussel extract? A contribution to the current controversy].

For years the mechanism of action of mussel extract has been explained as due to the presence of glycosaminolgycans (GAG). In this study our aim was to determine the content and type of GAG in mussel extract using the revised more specific DMMB method. Relevant amount of classical GAG could not be detected either in pure mussel extract or in feed supplements containing mussel extract. On the basis of the results of our study and a comprehensive literature search we reach the conclusion that the effects induced by mussel extract can not be mediated by GAG.