Importance of Co-Factors in Collagen Synthesis

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the body that plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of our tissues and organs (1). It also provides a sturdy framework for our skin, bones, tendons, joints, ligaments, cartilage, and muscles. Collagen plays an important role in the restoration process of the injured tissues and helps in wound healing process (2). 

However, as we age, our collagen synthesis by cells decreases significantly and skin becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic. This also leads to wrinkle formation. One more important factor that leads to the destruction of collagen is the ultraviolet radiation. People who are exposed to UVB radiations tend to show low collagen production and age faster (3). Other lifestyle habits like high intake of sugar in diet and tobacco consumption in any form also reduces collagen level in the body (4,5).

Natural production of collagen in the body requires a lot of other ingredients. These components are referred to as co-factors and include vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, copper, zinc, etc.  

Vitamin C is essential for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. Vitamin C is important for the maintenance of a normal mature collagen network in humans (anti-scurvy properties) by inhibiting the auto-inactivation of lysyl and prolyl hydroxylase, two crucial enzymes in collagen formation (6). 

Deficiency of vitamin A in the body is linked to slowed re-epithelisation, reduced collagen production and stability, and an increased vulnerability of the individual to infection (7). Supplementation of vitamin A may help in reduction of matrix metalloproteinase expression and stimulate production of collagen in both naturally aged and photo-aged skin (8).

Apart from vitamins other important co-factors required for collagen synthesis are minerals like manganese, copper, and zinc.

Manganese is a trace mineral element that is required in the body for activating an enzyme called prolidase. This enzyme helps in providing the amino acid proline which is essential for the production of collagen in skin cells (9).

Copper is also involved in the formation of collagen. It stimulates lysyl oxidase, an enzyme necessary for collagen maturation. Active lysyl oxidase connects collagen fibres to other supporting fibres, assisting in the formation of the structure that supports tissues (10). Furthermore, by enhancing collagen maturation, copper assists in increasing the elasticity of skin and its thickness (11).

Another important mineral that serves as a co-factor in collagen synthesis is zinc. This element is necessary for activating several metalloenzymes in the body. The primary role of zinc is to protect the skin from photodamage by absorbing UV irradiation and restricting radiation penetration into the skin (12). Zinc is required not just for the enzymes that produce type 1 and type 3 dermal collagen, but also for the cross-linking that provides collagen with its durability and stability. Human investigations have revealed that low zinc levels result in lower total collagen levels (13).

It is evident from published scientific reports vitamins and minerals serve as important co-factors and help the production of collagen in the body. In the case of naturally aged or photo-aged skin, one must consider taking supplements that combine high-quality collagen with these essential co-factors. 

References

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