COLLAGEN's TRIPLE HELIX STRUCTURE

 

 

Collagen’s Triple Helix Structure

Each collagen molecule resembles a microscopic rope that is extremely strong and flexible. Collagen forms a key part of the extracellular matrix of connective tissue and is found in a huge array of tissues including; hair, nails, skin, bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments.

The extracellular matrix gives connective tissue types most of their functional characteristics – i.e. the ability of bones and cartilage to bear weight.

Thus, when collagen is lost the functional characteristics of the tissue are lost e.g. skin loses elasticity leading to wrinkles.

Damage to connective tissue and loss of collagen occurs as a result of a number of causes including; disease, trauma, the environment (including the sun and pollution), ageing and menopause.

Despite collagen being the most abundant protein in the body (approximately 76 percent of the total protein of the body) it is only recently that science has examined the role of collagen supplements in maintaining collagen content in connective tissue (type II collagen) and thereby treating connective tissue disorders including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, as well as skin hair and nail quality. Clinical studies available appear promising and show positive results, with both.