Collagen Synthesis
Collagen synthesis is the complex biological process by which the body produces collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals. This multi-step process involves transcription, translation, post-translational modifications (e.g., hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues, glycosylation), and assembly into triple helices within cells, followed by secretion and extracellular fibril formation. Essential for maintaining the structural integrity of connective tissues, skin, bones, and cartilage, disruptions in collagen synthesis can lead to various medical conditions, including osteogenesis imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes.
