Collagen protein is naturally present in the body. This protein, composed of amino acids, is the most abundant in the human body. Collagen has various functions within the body. Over time, collagen synthesis becomes less efficient, hence the benefit of supplementation to enjoy the benefits of marine collagen in hydrolysed form.

The different functions of collagen

One of these functions is to bind calcium to the bones, thus helping to preserve the joints and prevent osteoarthritis.
Collagen is also beneficial for the skin. It enables the epidermal tissues to regenerate and maintain their elasticity.

A little-known fact is that there are at least 16 different types of collagen in the human body. These include collagen types 1, 2, 3, 5 and 10. In the body, depending on the cells, tissues and protein matrices involved, the combinations of “building blocks” called amino acids can be different, leading to different structures and functions. Collagen is therefore classified into different types.

However, the vast majority of collagen – between 80% and 90% – is made up of types 1, 2 and 3.

What are the different types of collagen?

Here is an overview of the different types of collagen, collagen sources and their main benefits so that you can determine which type of collagen is most beneficial:

  • Type 1/Type I: This is by far the most abundant type of collagen and is considered to be the strongest found in the human body. It is found in most parts of the body, including tendons, ligaments, organs and skin (dermis). Type 1 collagen also helps form bones and is found in the digestive tract. It is very important for wound healing, giving the skin its elastic and stretchy quality, and holding tissues together so they don’t tear (connective tissue).
  • Type 2/Type II: Type 2 collagen mainly helps build cartilage, which is found in connective tissues. The health of our joints depends on cartilage made of type 2 collagen. This is why it is beneficial in preventing age-related joint pain or symptoms of arthritis.
  • Type 3/Type III: Type 3 collagen is composed of reticular fibres and is a major component of the extracellular matrix that makes up our organs and skin. It is usually found with type 1 and helps give the skin its elasticity and firmness. It is also found in blood vessels and tissues inside the heart. For these reasons, type 3 collagen deficiency has been associated with a higher risk of blood vessel rupture and even premature death, according to the results of some animal studies.
  • Type 4/Type IV: Type 4 collagen has the important function of forming a basement membrane, which is found in the endothelial cells that form the tissues surrounding organs, muscles and fat. Basement membranes are necessary for various nerve and blood vessel functions. They line most of our digestive organs and respiratory surfaces. The basement membrane is found in the spaces between the top layer of skin/tissue and the deepest layer. It is a thin layer of gel-like fluid that acts as a cushion or padding for the tissues above it.
  • Type 5/Type V: This type of collagen is necessary for cell surfaces, as well as hair strands and tissues found in female placentas (the organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, provides oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby, and removes waste).
  • Type 10/Type X: Type 10 aids in the formation of new bone and the formation of joint cartilage. It is involved in the process of endochondral ossification, which is how bone tissue is created in mammals. It has been found to be beneficial in the healing of bone fractures and the repair of synovial joints.