(First of Three Parts) INTEREST in the biochemistry of collagen derives in part from its abundance, in part from its unusual properties and in part from its likely importance in diseases of connective tissue. Collagen is probably the most abundant protein in the human body, and it is the major constituent of most connective tissues (Table 1). The other major components of these tissues are elastin, a related fibrous protein, and the class of sugar polymers known as mucopolysaccharides or proteoglycans. Soft organs such as liver contain only a small amount of collagen, whereas in tissues such as skin and. 1972, Massachusetts Medical Society. All rights reserved.
