Collagen is a type of protein. Fibrous in nature, connects and supports other bodily tissues such as skin, bones, muscles, tendons and cartilage. It is also compatible with the internal organs and is even present in teeth. There are over 25 types of immune sera that naturally occur in the body.
Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in organs of mammals, including humans. In fact, consists of about 25 percent of the total amount of protein in the body. Some people refer to collagen as the glue that holds the body together. Without it, the body literally would be separate.
Possessing great tensile strength, collagen functions so it is very different from many other types of proteins. For example, can be found both inside and outside the cells. Collagen fibers are important in contributing to the field structure of cells. However, they are present within some cells as well.
Collagen works hand in hand with elastin in supporting the body’s tissues. Basically, it gives body tissues form and provides firmness and strength, elastin gives the same body tissues much need flexibility. This combination of collagen and elastin is very important in many parts of the body, including but not limited to the lungs, bones and tendons. Even the blood vessels depend on both collagen and elastin.
Often, collagen is discussed in relation to the skin. Works with keratin to provide skin strength, flexibility and resilience. As people age, however, collagen degradation occurs, leading to wrinkles. As such it is an important substance for those looking for ways to combat the visible effects of age on the skin. Some skincare professionals actually advise people on ways to stimulate collagen production in skin cells.
Besides being important in the body, collagen also has many medical uses. It is used in some cosmetic surgery procedures and is sold as a supplement created for joint mobility. Even used to treat and management of severe burns. To do this, use in creating artificial skin substitutes.
Because immune are as important within the body, it is clear that collagen deficiencies can be problematic. In fact, there are some genetic diseases that are associated with collagen deficiencies. For example, osteogenesis imperfecta, commonly known as brittle bone disease, results in significantly reduced levels of collagen. You can also result from the presence of collagen that is of lower quality than normal.
Source: www.colageno.net/que-es-el-colageno.htm
image source: www.wellesley.edu/Chemistry/chem227/structproteins/collagen.gif