kids encyclopedia robot

Collagen facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Collagen -- Smart-Servier (cropped)
Collagen with triple helix (left) and microscopic structure (right).

Collagen is a group of naturally occurring proteins. In nature, it is found exclusively in animals, especially in the flesh and connective tissues of mammals.

It is the main component of connective tissue, and is the most abundant protein in mammals. It makes up about 25% to 35% of the whole-body protein content.

Collagen, in the form of elongated fibrils, is mostly found in fibrous tissues such as tendon, ligament and skin, and is also abundant in cornea, cartilage, bone, blood vessels, the gut, and intervertebral discs.

Collagen constitutes 1% to 2% of muscle tissue, and accounts for 6% of the weight of strong, tendinous muscles.

Gelatin, which is used in food and industry, is collagen that has been irreversibly hydrolyzed.

Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Colágeno para niños

kids search engine
Collagen Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.