Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
8455576 | Matrix Biology | 2011 | 5 Pages |
Abstract
Collagen cross-linking mechanically strengthens tissues during development and aging, but there is limited data describing how force transmitted across cross-links affects molecular conformation. We used Steered Molecular Dynamics (SMD) to model perpendicular force through a side chain. Results predicted that collagen peptides have negligible bending resistance and that mechanical force causes helix disruption below covalent bond failure strength, suggesting alternative molecular conformations precede cross-link rupture and macroscopic damage during mechanical loading.
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Authors
Jonathan W. Bourne, Peter A. Torzilli,