Biochemistry · Biomolecules and Proteins

Collagen: structure, synthesis and clinical importance

3 min read

Quick Orientation

Section

Definition

Objective
Understand the core idea
Keywords
Collagen

Distribution and Types

Objective
Separate the major categories
Keywords
19 genetically distinct types, type I, type II

Structure

Objective
See how the components fit together
Keywords
Type I mature collagen, 1.4 nm in diameter and 300 nm long, (Gly-X-Y)n

Biosynthesis

Objective
Follow the sequence and key control points
Keywords
fibroblasts, preprocollagen, procollagen

Clinical Correlation

Objective
Connect the mechanism to clinical findings
Keywords
Scurvy, Lathyrism, Kesari dal (Lathyrus sativus)

Definition

Collagen: the most abundant protein in mammals (about one-third of total body protein), the predominant structural protein of connective tissue.

  • A triple-helical protein forming 90% of bone organic matrix, 85% of tendon, 70% of skin and 4% of liver.

Distribution and Types