Collagen

• Definition: Collagen is a protein supplement derived from animal sources like bones and connective tissue. It's rich in amino acids such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.
• Purpose: Supports connective tissue health (skin, hair, nails, bones, joints) by providing building blocks for collagen production.
• Goal of Supplementation: To promote tissue strength, elasticity, and hydration, potentially improving skin texture, reducing joint pain, and enhancing well-being.

• Abundance: Approximately 25-35% of all body proteins.
• Molecular Formula (Type I Collagen): (C₉₆H₁₄₇N₃₁O₃₄)₈₆₇ (approx. 285,000 g/mol)
• IUPAC Name: No specific IUPAC name; the repeating triplet is (2S)-2-amino-4-(4-hydroxyprolyl)-5-oxoproline.
• Key Structural Features:
  • Triple Helix Structure: Three polypeptide chains (alpha helices) twisted together.
  • Repeating Triplet Sequence: Glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline (repeated ~1000 times).
  • Glycine Residues: Smallest amino acid; allows tight packing of alpha helices.
  • Hydroxyproline and Hydroxylysine Residues: Unique to collagen; stabilize the triple helix.
  • Intra- and Intermolecular Cross-Links: Stabilize collagen molecules via lysine and hydroxylysine reactions.

• Natural Sources:
  • Bovine (cow) hide and bones (Type I and III)
  • Porcine (pig) skin and bones (Type I and III)
  • Marine sources (fish, shellfish) (Type I)
  • Chicken sternum and feet (Type II)
  • Eggshell membrane (Type I and V)
• Extraction/Synthesis Methods:
  • Hydrolysis (breaks down protein into smaller peptides and amino acids)
  • Enzymatic hydrolysis
  • Acid hydrolysis
  • Fermentation
  • Recombinant DNA technology
• Quality Considerations for Supplements:
  • Source and purity (free from contaminants and heavy metals)
  • Molecular weight (lower molecular weight <10,000 Da is more easily absorbed)
  • Bioavailability (ensure absorption and utilization)

(Note: References 1-20 are missing from the original text and need to be added for completeness.)