fig6

Figure 6. Collagenase (also referred to as Matrix metalloproteinase, MMP) binds and locally unwinds the triple-helical structure allowing subsequent hydrolysis of the exposed peptide bonds. The enzyme preferentially interacts with the α2(I) chain of type I collagen and cleaves the 3 α chains in succession. This results in the derivation of the characteristic 3/4 and 1/4 fragments. (By permission of MINERVA Research Labs Ltd - London)