Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, found in the bones, muscles, skin, and tendons comprising about 80 % of its dry weight.
It is the substance that holds the body together. Collagen forms a scaffold to provide strength and structure. In most collagens, the molecules are packed together to form long, thin fibrils. These act as supporting structures and anchor cells to each other. They give the skin strength and elasticity.
The collagens in the human body are strong and flexible. Type 1 collagen fibrils are particularly capable of being stretched. Gram-for-gram, they are stronger than steel.
Endogenous collagen is natural collagen, synthesized by the body. Exogenous collagen is synthetic. It comes from an outside source, such as supplements.
Endogenous collagen has a number of important functions. Breakdown and depletion of endogenous collagen is linked to a number of health problems.
Exogenous collagen is used for medical and cosmetic purposes, including the repair of body tissues.
There are at least 16 different types of collagens, but 80 to 90 percent of them belong to types 1, 2, and 3. These different types have different structures and functions.
Collagen is secreted by various cells, but mainly by connective tissue cells.
It is found in the extracellular matrix. This is an intricate network of macromolecules that determines the physical properties of body tissues. A macromolecule is a molecule containing a large number of atoms.
In the dermis, or the middle layer of skin, collagen helps form a fibrous network of cells called fibroblasts, upon which new cells can grow. It also plays a role in replacing and restoring dead skin cells.
Some collagens act as protective coverings for delicate organs in the body, such as the kidneys.
With age, the body produces less collagen. The structural integrity of the skin declines. Wrinkles form, and joint cartilage weakens. Women experience a dramatic reduction in collagen synthesis after menopause.
By the age of 60 years, a considerable decline in collagen production is normal.
Collagen is resorbable. This means it can be broken down, converted, and absorbed back into the body.
Its diverse range of functions and the fact that it is naturally occurring make it clinically versatile and suitable for various medical purposes.
Collagen for medical use can originate from humans, cows, pigs, or sheep.
Collagen supplements or formulations may help treat osteoarthritis. A 2006 review found that supplements containing collagen helped decrease painful symptoms and improving joint function in people with osteoarthritis.
As the supplement was absorbed, collagen accumulated in the cartilage, and this helped to rebuild the extracellular matrix.
What damages collagen?
High sugar consumption: A high-sugar diet increases the rate of glycation, a process where blood sugars attach to proteins to form new molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs damage nearby proteins and can make collagen dry, brittle, and weak.
Smoking: Many chemicals present in tobacco smoke damage both collagen and elastin in the skin. Nicotine also narrows the blood vessels in the outer layers of the skin. This compromises skin health by reducing the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the skin.
Sunlight: Ultraviolet rays in sunlight cause collagen to break down more rapidly, damaging collagen fibres and causing abnormal elastin to build up.
The UV rays in sunlight damage the collagen in the dermis, and the skin rebuilds incorrectly, forming wrinkles.
Autoimmune disorders: Some autoimmune disorders cause antibodies to target collagen.
Genetic changes can affect the extracellular matrix. The collagen that is produced can be lower, or it may be dysfunctional, mutated collagen.
The aging process causes collagen levels to deplete naturally over time. There is no way to prevent this.
Avoiding tobacco and excess sun exposure and following a healthful dietary and exercise regime can help reduce visible aging and protect collagen, keeping the skin, bones, muscles, and joints healthy for longer.
