Altering Collagen

Collagen is an important protein in the body which support internal organs, the elasticity of the skin and other tissues in the human body. Collagen deficiency leads to numerous amounts of illnesses such as arthritis. A group of researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison may have found a solution for collagen deficiency in the human body. According to Science Daily (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/01/100112135040.htm, the group of researchers have discovered a collagen similar to those found in the human body, but with greater stability. Ron Raines's team of researchers alternated the regular amino acids found in collagen with less-flexible versions to increase the rigidness of the overall structure and keep its form. Thus, these artificial collagen are resistant to a higher amount of heat than natural collagen. The team of researches led by Professor Raines are optimistic that their discovery of super-strong collagen will be beneficial in the medical world as well as a great discovery in protein chemistry.

Posted by Putri Matahari