Collagen fiber in dermal connective tissue

Collagen fibers in dermal and subdermal connective tissue are the principal structural components of the extracellular matrix that confer strength, flexibility, and resilience to the skin. They are primarily composed of type I collagen, with lesser amounts of type III and V, produced predominantly by fibroblasts[1][2][3]. These fibers are organized into irregular bundles that give the dermis tensile strength while allowing for movement and elasticity[1][2][5]. Collagen turnover and remodeling is essential for normal tissue repair and wound healing; dysregulation leads to fibrosis or impaired healing[4]. Collagen is not a typical drug target like enzymes or receptors; it is a structural biomolecule, although enzymes that degrade collagen (such as collagenases) and molecules that influence its synthesis or degradation are targeted therapeutically in some diseases[6]. Abnormalities in collagen fiber production or assembly underlie many connective tissue disorders and aging skin changes. This term refers to a major ECM component, not a classic molecular target.

Other names

Collagen fibersDermal collagenDermal collagen fibersFibrillar collagen (in skin)Connective tissue collagen

Enzyme-mediated degradation (collagenase: cleaves collagen fibers) - Stimulation of collagen synthesis (retinoids: upregulate collagen production in dermis)