STPM Biology - chapter 1: Revision essay question 15

15. Collagen is an important component in the tendon .Explain how the structure of the tendon is related to its function .


Answer:

Collagen is fibrous structural protein consisting of three long helical polypeptide strands coiled around one another .Hydrogen form cross-bridges which hold the three strands together .This provides additional support but limited elasticity .Many triple helices lie paralled together and are joined by the covalent bonds between adjacent chains to form fibrils .The fibrils are then hold to form thicker and stronger collegen fibers . Collagen fibers are insoluble and extremely resistant in stretching .The fibers are the essential components of tendons ,bones , skin and connective tissue .For example , collagen makes the tendons stronger , non-elastic and does not break easily .Tendon connects muscle to bone and helps to pull the bone during muscle contraction.Collegen fibres can also bind with other components e.g with a form of calcium phosphate to increase the strength of bone .

Assignment submitted by C.Y., Tan, B.X., Loh, J.E., Tai, W.L., Kwan, G.H., Tan  2011/2012 (IBM)