Collagen is the main protein of connective tissue in animals and the most abundant protein in mammals, making up about 25% of the total protein content. It is one of the long, fibrous structural proteins whose functions are quite different from those of globular proteins such as enzymes; tough bundles of collagen called collagen fibers are a major component of the extracellular matrix that supports most tissues and gives cells structure from the outside, but collagen is also found inside certain cells. Collagen has great tensile strength, and is the main component of fascia, 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. Collagen occurs in many places throughout the body. There are 12 types of collagen described in literature. Collagen Type 1: This is the most abundant collagen of the human body. It is present in scar tissue, the end product when tissue heals by repair. It is found in tendons, the endomysium of myofibrils and the organic part of bone. Collagen Type 4: It is present in basal lamina and the eye lens. Also serves as part of the filtration system in capillaries and the glomeruli of nephron in the kidney.
Intended for research use only. Not for use in human, therapeutic, or diagnostic applications.