Recombinant Human Collagen II protein (His tag)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Collagen type II also known as collagen II or native type II collagen is a fibrillar collagen essential in the formation of cartilage. It has a molecular mass of about 300 kDa. This protein is widely expressed in cartilaginous tissues including the extracellular matrix (ECM) of hyaline cartilage which makes up a significant part of the cartilage in joints and intervertebral discs. Collagen type II provides tensile strength and structural support to these tissues facilitating normal function and joint stability.

Biological function summary

Fibrillar collagen type II is an important component of the extracellular matrix important for endochondral ossification and cartilage formation. Collagen type II forms a network that interacts with other ECM molecules such as proteoglycans and non-collagenous proteins creating a hydrated gel that resists compressive forces. This complex structure is essential for maintaining the biomechanical properties of cartilage enabling it to withstand mechanical stress and support smooth joint movements.

Pathways

Collagen type II plays an important role in cartilage development and homeostasis. It is integral to the TGF-β signaling pathway which regulates cell growth and differentiation in chondrocytes. The protein is related to other collagens such as collagen type IX and proteoglycans like aggrecan both of which contribute to the structural integrity of cartilage. These interactions facilitate the proper assembly and organization of cartilage ECM supporting tissue function.

Collagen type II has a significant association with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In these degenerative conditions the degradation of collagen type II leads to cartilage breakdown and joint pain. Furthermore autoimmune response against collagen type II can occur as seen in rheumatoid arthritis where anti-collagen antibodies target the protein worsening joint inflammation. The protein's impairment or structural alteration may also involve interactions with degradative enzymes like matrix metalloproteinases exacerbating disease progression.