Collagenesis is the biological synthesis and formation of collagen molecules within living tissue, involving complex intracellular and extracellular processes that produce structured protein fibrils. The process occurs through specific genetic expression in fibroblasts, osteoblasts, and chondroblasts.
The synthesis begins with transcription of collagen genes, followed by translation on rough endoplasmic reticulum where procollagen α-chains form. These chains undergo post-translational modifications including hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues, glycosylation, and triple helix formation. The procollagen molecules move through the Golgi apparatus for secretion into the extracellular space.
Extracellular enzymes cleave terminal propeptides, allowing spontaneous assembly into microfibrils. Cross-linking occurs through lysyl oxidase activity, creating stable collagen fibrils with characteristic 67-nanometer banding patterns. This process maintains tissue architecture and mechanical properties in organs throughout the body. The rate of collagenesis responds to mechanical stress, growth factors, and hormonal signals, with dysregulation leading to various pathological conditions.
