The Ins and Outs of Collagen
Collagen is a hard, insoluble, and fibrous
protein that makes up one-third of the protein found in the human body.
It acts as a supporting structure and anchors cells to each other to
provide strength and elasticity. There are at least 16 different types
of collagen, but 80-90% of them belong to types 1, 2, and 3. Each type
has a different structure and functions.
What Does Collagen Do?
Collagen is secreted by various cells, but mostly by connective tissue
cells. It’s found in the extracellular matrix, which is an intricate
network of macromolecules that determines the physical properties of
body tissues. A macromolecule is a molecule that contains a large number
of atoms.
In the dermis, or the middle layer of the skin, collagen helps to form a
fibrous network of cells known as fibroblasts, upon which new cells
grow. It also plays a role in replacing and restoring dead skin cells.
Some collagens act as protective layers for delicate organs such as the
kidney.
With age, the body produces less collagen, resulting in the formation of
wrinkles, and weaknesses in joint cartilage. Women experience a
dramatic reduction in collagen synthesis straight after menopause.
Uses: Medical and Cosmetic
Collagen is resorbable which means it can
be broken down, converted, and absorbed back into the body. Furthermore,
it can also be formed into compacted solids or lattice-like gels. Its
diverse range of functions, and the fact that it occurs naturally, makes
it clinically versatile and suitable for a range of medical procedures.
Skin Fillers
Collagen injections can improve the
contours of the skin and help fill out depressions. Fillers that contain
collagen can be used to remover wrinkles and lines from the face. They
can also help improve scars, as long as they do not have a sharp edge.
Wound Dressing
Collagen can help to heal wounds by attracting new skins cells to the
wound site. It promotes healing and provides a new platform for tissue
growth.
Collagen dressings can help heal:
• Chronic wounds that do not respond to other treatments
• Necrotic or rotting wounds
• Wounds that expel bodily fluids such as urine or sweat
• Granulating wounds, on which different tissues grow
• Partial and full-thickness wounds
• Second-degree burns
• Sites of skin donation and skin grafts
Guided Tissue Regeneration
Collagen-based membranes have been used in periodontal and implant
therapy to promote the growth of specific types of cells. In oral
surgery, collagen barriers can prevent fast-growing cells around the gum
from migrating to a wound in a tooth. This preserves a space, allowing
tooth cells the chance to regenerate.
Vascular Prosthetics
Collagen tissue grafts from donors have been used in peripheral nerve
regeneration, in arterial reconstruction, and in vascular prostheses.
While collagen prostheses are compatible with the human body, some have
been found to be thrombogenic, or likely to cause coagulation of the
blood.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Collagen supplements may help treat
osteoarthritis. A study carried out back in 2006 found that supplements
containing collagen helped decrease painful symptoms and improve joint
function in people with osteoarthritis. As the supplement is absorbed,
collagen accumulates in the cartilage, helping to rebuild the
extracellular matrix.
Nutrients That promote Collagen Formation
• Proline: In egg whites, cheese, soy. Cabbage, and meat.
• Anthocyanidins: In blueberries, cherries, blackberries, and
raspberries.
• Vitamin C: In strawberries, oranges, broccoli, and peppers.
• Copper: In shellfish, red meat, nuts, and some drinking water.
What Damages Collagen?
Some factors can deplete the levels of collagen in the body. Avoiding
them could keep the skin healthier for longer.
High Sugar Consumption
A diet high in sugar increases the rate of glycation, a process where
blood sugars attach to proteins to form new molecules called advanced
glycation end products (AGEs). These damage nearby proteins and can make
collagen brittle, dry, and weak.
Smoking
Many of the chemicals found in tobacco
smoke damage both collagen and elastin in the skin. Nicotine also
narrows the blood vessels in the outer layers of the skin, which reduces
the amount of nutrients and oxygen that can be delivered to the skin.
Sunlight
UV rays cause collagen to break down more rapidly, damaging collagen
fibers and causing an abnormal buildup of elastin. When the collagen in
the dermis is damaged by UV rays, the skin rebuilds incorrectly, forming
wrinkles.
The Aging Process
Collagen levels decrease over time and there is nothing that can be done
to prevent this. Avoiding tobacco, excess sun exposure, and following a
healthy diet and exercise regime can help reduce visible aging and
protect collagen, keeping the skin, muscles, bones, and joints healthy
for longer.