Type III procollagen is a large triple-helical protein that serves as a precursor to collagen Type III, one of the major types of collagen found in the extracellular matrix of our tissues and organs. Collagen is a fibrous protein that provides structural support, strength, and elasticity to various connective tissues in the body.
Type III procollagen is produced by specialized cells called fibroblasts and other connective tissue cells. It consists of three polypeptide chains, known as alpha chains, that are twisted together to form a triple helix. These alpha chains are encoded by COL3A1 gene.
The processing and secretion of Type III procollagen involve a series of enzymatic modifications and interactions within the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus of the cells. After secretion, it is cleaved by specific enzymes to remove the non-helical propeptide regions, resulting in the formation of mature Type III collagen molecules.
Type III collagen is primarily found in tissues with high tensile strength requirements, such as the skin, blood vessels, lungs, and digestive organs. It contributes to the structural integrity and resilience of these tissues, as well as plays a role in cell adhesion, migration, and tissue repair.
Abnormalities in the production or structure of Type III procollagen can lead to various disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a group of connective tissue disorders characterized by hypermobility, skin fragility, and joint laxity. Type III procollagen is a crucial component in maintaining the proper functioning and structure of our connective tissues.
