Structure and Function of Collagen

Collagen is a primary structural protein found in various connective tissues in the body. It plays several crucial roles, particularly in the internal healing process and maintaining the integrity of tissues, which are of paramount importance for post-operative recovery.

Structure and Function of Collagen

Primary Structural Protein: Collagen is the most abundant protein in mammals, making up about 25-35% of the whole-body protein content. It forms the building blocks of skin, tendons, bones, cartilage, and connective tissues.

Types of Collagen: There are at least 28 types of collagen, but the most common are Type I, II, III, and IV:

Type I: Found in skin, tendon, vasculature, organs, and bone (main component of the organic part of bone).

Type II: Found in cartilage.

Type III: Found in reticular fibers (part of connective tissue).

Type IV: Forms the basal lamina, the epithelium-secreted layer of the basement membrane.