Collagen Structure and Function
The integrity and durability of skin is dependent upon the proteins and fibers that make up the netting called the extracellular matrix. This matrix anchors tissues to one another and provides much of the strong, flexible protection we need to defend ourselves and keep out infectious invaders. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our extracellular matrix. According to "Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine, 7e," "collagen fibers...comprise approximately 80 percent of the dry weight of the dermis." A single collagen fiber is the product of three protein chains woven together like steel cable. These are then lain atop one another at 90-degree angles in an incredibly dense mat. If it weren't for collagen, all supportive structures in our bodies, including our bones and cartilage, would collapse.
Effects of Decreased Collagen
Some of the effects of decreased collagen are apparent in diseases such as scurvy. Vitamin C is necessary for the enzymes, which create collagen to function. A person without adequate vitamin C in his diet--for example, a sailor on a long voyage without access to fresh fruit--starts to literally fall apart. At first he's unable to heal from minor wounds, because collagen is necessary for the production of new skin and connective tissue. He begins to develop tiny bruises all over his body, called petechiae, due to the loss of support around his smallest blood vessels. Eventually his gums will bleed, teeth will begin to fall out, and bones will become misshapen and weak.
Scurvy is a very rare disease today in the developed world, but with age the production of collagen naturally decreases. Though rarely leading to poor wound healing or bleeding, age-related collagen loss can cause decreased support in the skin and the appearance of wrinkles.
Prevention
Collagen loss is far from the only cause of wrinkles. With age also comes decreased fat under the skin, loss of moisture, and the accumulation of years of ultraviolet light exposure from the sun. However, maintaining your levels of collagen can help keep your skin and bones healthy and strong. The most important step you can take in this regard is to ensure you get adequate levels of vitamin C in your diet. In addition, moisturizing your skin regularly helps keep the collagen already present intact. Taking care of your collagen provides benefits for your appearance and overall health.
References
- "Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine, 7e;" Klaus Wolff, Lowell A. Goldsmith, Stephen I. Katz, Barbara A. Gilchrest, Amy S. Paller, David J. Leffell; 2008
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 17e;" Anthony S. Fauci, Eugene Braunwald, Dennis L. Kasper, Stephen L. Hauser, Dan L. Longo, J. Larry Jameson, and Joseph Loscalzo, Eds.; 2008
- "Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 28e;" Robert K. Murray, David A Bender, Kathleen M. Botham, Peter J. Kennelly, Victor W. Rodwell, P. Anthony Weil; 2009
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