Collagen matrix is an insoluble fibrous protein that forms part of the background material of connective tissue.
Types of collagen in adult articular cartilage
Joint cartilage consists of largely of the matrix, which is formed of a cross-linked copolymer - of which Type II collagen is the main type found. The strength and durability of joint cartilage is a function of the cross-linking of the various collagen molecules, and cartilage cells (chondrocytes) are responsible for the modelling of these collagen components and the arrangement of the collagen into fibrils.
Collagen can be used to create scaffolds for biological regeneration of damaged tissues.
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