Type II collagen (alpha-1(II) chain) (COL2A1)

Type II collagen (encoded by the COL2A1 gene) is the primary structural protein of cartilage, forming strong triple-helical fibrils that provide tensile strength and structural integrity to cartilage, intervertebral discs, the vitreous humor of the eye, and other connective tissues. Its proper synthesis requires multiple steps of post-translational modification, and defects in its production or regulation are central to cartilage degeneration and inherited collagenopathies. The molecule Type II collagen, or the phrase 'Type II collagen synthesis,' is not considered a therapeutic target in the sense of a conventional receptor, enzyme, or transporter; it is a protein product and a component of a synthetic pathway. Therefore, it is not a direct drug target in the pharmacological sense. However, experimental supplements such as hydrolyzed or undenatured type II collagen have been used for joint health and osteoarthritis, aiming to restore or support collagen function rather than directly targeting its synthesis.

Other names

Collagen type IICollagen alpha-1(II) chainCOL2A1 gene product

Immune modulation (for undenatured oral collagen), Support of cartilage structure