Application and Uses of Collagen

Collagen plays a major role the human body. According to the Research Collaboratory for Structural Bioinformatics' (RCSB) Protein Data Bank, it comprises approximately 25 percent of the protein in the body. (See reference 1.) Formed from amino acids in a triple helix structure, collagen provides support for skin, bones, tendons and ligaments. It has several biomedical and non-medical applications and uses.

Cosmetic procedures

Collagen finds extensive use in cosmetic procedures. In 2007, approximately 174,000 collagen injections occurred in the U.S. alone, according to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery. (See reference 2.) As the body ages, the collagen that supports the integrity of skin begins to break down. This contributes to the development of wrinkles, laugh lines and skin folds. Plastic surgeons inject collagen or a substitute beneath the skin using a fine needle. The injection places collagen directly beneath the lines or wrinkles, which helps to smooth the overall appearance of the skin at that point. Some people also have collagen injections performed on their lips. The filler material in the injection may be made of human collagen, cow collagen or a synthetic material suspended in cow collagen, reports the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery.

Heart valves

Creating artificial heart valves represents another proposed medical use of collagen, as reported in a 2005 article appearing in Circulation Research. (See reference 3.) The article suggests that collagen constructs might be able to replace faulty heart valves in the future. As of 2005, the technology remained unready for human trials. However, the article did report an expectation that animals trials might be on the horizon.

Collagen skin creams

A number of cosmetic companies produce skin creams that contain collagen. The companies claim that such products will improve the strength and vitality of the existing collagen structure in the skin. Such claims, according to Smart Skincare, do not stand up to scrutiny or, in the case of transdermal creams, lack sufficient scientific evidence to support the claims. (See reference 4.) The creams may, however, function as moisturizers, which do benefit skin health and appearance, meaning the creams do provide some value.

Gelatin

Gelatin represents the major industrial application of collagen. Its formation occurs through a process in which crushed bones and cartilage undergo defatting, a hydrochloric acid soak, an alkali soak and then dehydration, according to Brigham and Women's Hospital. (See reference 5.) The process decalcifies the material and breaks the collagen bonds. Its uses include food products and capsules for medication.

References

• Research Collaboratory for Structural Bioinformatics' (RCSB) Protein Data Bank: Collagen
• Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery: Collagen Injections – Benefits, Cost & Side Effects
• Circulation Research: Heart Valve Tissue Engineering
• Smart Skincare: Skin Care
• Brigham and Women's Hospital: Gelatin (Hydrolyzed Collagen)