Collagen is the main protein of connective tissue in animals and the most abundant protein in mammals, making up about 40% of the total. It is one of the long, fibrous structural proteins whose functions are quite different from those of globular proteins such as enzymes. It is tough and inextensible, with great tensile strength, and is the main component of cartilage, ligaments, tendons,bone and teeth. Along with soft keratin, it is responsible for skin strength and elasticity, and its degradation leads to wrinkles that accompany aging. It strengthens blood vessels and plays a role in tissue development. It is present in the cornea and lens of the eye in crystalline form. It is also used in cosmetic surgery and burns surgery.

Synthesis

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Collagen has an unusual amino acid composition and sequence. Glycine (Gly) is found at almost every third residue, and collagen contains large amounts of proline, (Pro) — as well as two uncommon derivative amino acids not directly inserted during translation of mRNA: hydroxyproline (Hypro) and hydroxylysine. Prolines and lysines at specific locations relative to glycine are modified post-translationally by different enzymes, both of which require vitamin C as a cofactor. Depending on the type of collagen, varying numbers of hydroxylysines have disaccharides attached to them.

Synthetic Pathogenesis

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