What Is Collagen And Why Is It So Important?

Collagen is a protein polymer that is the scaffolding of the body's cell structure. It is a long, fibrous structural protein that is very different from globular proteins like enzymes. It is composed of Tropocollagen Triple Helix. Each strand of the helix is a different polypeptide. Each subunit of Tropocollagen is a long rod of about 300nm in length and about 1.5nm in diameter. The tensile strength of collagen is greater than steel, giving the body strength in its connective tissues.

As the most abundant protein in the body, collagen makes up 40% of the protein in all mammals. 75% of the skin, the largest organ of the body, is collagen. It literally means "glue producer" in Greek. This is a very appropriate name for this protein since this is, in large part, what it does – it forms the connective tissue that binds the body together at the cellular level.

There are thirteen types of collagen with Type I being the most abundant. Type I is found in scar tissue, tendons and the organic parts of the bones. It is what gives skin its elasticity and strength. As we age, collagen is lost, causing the skin to wrinkle and tear easily. Vitamin C deficiency is characterized by defective collagen not forming strong connective tissue resulting in things like deteriorating and bleeding gums, loss of teeth, skin discoloration and wounds not healing.

Collagen is vital to the body as the main component of tendons, ligaments, cartilage, teeth and bones. The skin gets its strength and elasticity from this component, as said before. Blood vessels are strengthened by it and it plays an important role in tissue development. When blood vessels collapse, usually when an attempt is made to draw blood or establish an IV, it is most likely due to a breakdown of collagen.

Besides being an important part of connective tissue, it also plays a major role in other things like cell differentiation and shape. Healing is another part of it's function. It is a major part of the regeneration and healing of broken bones and blood vessels growing to feed healing areas.

To emphasize the importance of collagen, lets imagine for a moment, an elaborate beadwork piece. The piece is held together with thread but it is not seen. Pull the thread out and the beads fall apart. The thread is an absolute necessity to hold the beadwork together. So, too, is collagen a necessity to hold our bodies together and help them heal. Many people only know of collagen as part of cosmetic surgery and skin care creams. They do not realize just how important a role it plays in every part of our bodies.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about collagen.

Copyright © 2006, Heather Colman. Find more collagen resources at collagen-hut.info.

Article Source: http://www.wellnessarticlelibrary.com

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