fig2

Figure 2. Collagen fibril formation. Collagen genes are transcribed into RNA and translated into protein in the fibroblast cell. Post-translational processing occurs, followed by binding of the 3 individual chains at the C-terminus. The 3 chains are tightly bound together and supported with cross-links which stabilise the structure. This trimerization process allows assembly of α-chains which are further assembled into fibrils. (By permission of MINERVA Research Labs Ltd - London)