Structural Protein Paper

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Collagen is the most abundant structural protein found in animals, and makes up about 30% of the protein found in humans (McIntosh, 2015, p. 1). There are 16 different types of collagen, with 80-90% of them being types I, II, and III. Collagen and the structures it aides in forming all serve as the strength and structure of epithelial tissues. (Loddish, Berk & Zipursky, 2000, sect. 22.3). This paper will explore the function, structure, and production of collagen in the human body.

The Structure and Function of Collagen in the Human Body
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein found in animals, and is found woven into fibers, composed of fibrils, to form supporting structures throughout the body (McConnell, Hull, 2011, p.102). The …show more content…
Collagen molecules are made by special types of cells called fibroblasts (McConnell, Hull, 2011, p.102). In the fibroblast, specific amino acids-Glycine, Proline, Hydroxyproline, and Arginine-are activated and arranged into patterns, and translation begins. Peptide chains are formed in the ribosomes and translated into triple helical structures called procollagen. The procollagen is then transported and secreted outside the cell where molecules are split and closely assembled together to create collagen fibrils. The fibrils themselves are then closely assembled to create collagen fibers. The collagen fibers (Mandal, 2012). The collagen fibers are packed together to form different structures, depending on the type being …show more content…
All three of these types have a structural feature of 300 nm long fibrils, however each type boasts unique structural properties based on their function. Type 1 collagen fibers provide strength and support to various tissues including the skin, tendons, bones, and ligament structures, and is structurally tougher than the other two types. Type 2 collagen fibers are mainly found in cartilage, as well as the vitreous humor of the eye. Type 3 collagen fibers are often found in skin, muscle, blood vessels, and intestines, and are produced much more rapidly than the other two types (Loddish, et al., 2000, sect. 22.3). The various functions of these different collagen structures help to keep the body intact, and without them, the tissues they support would become weak and unable to function
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