Collagen and Blood Vessels: Vessel Walls, Endothelium and Elasticity

Collagen is found in several layers of the vessel wall, not just its outer surface.

The endothelium is a layer of cells lining the inner surface of blood and lymphatic vessels. It helps regulate vessel dilation and constriction, blood clotting, the passage of substances and inflammatory responses. Beneath it is a basement membrane that contains type IV collagen.

Vessel elasticity changes with age and is associated with collagen, elastin, blood pressure and metabolic processes. Regular physical activity, not smoking, a balanced diet and monitoring blood pressure are important aspects of cardiovascular care.

Collagen consumed in food is digested into smaller peptides and amino acids. Small studies have examined certain measures of vascular stiffness, but current evidence is insufficient to claim that collagen supplements restore blood vessel elasticity, repair the endothelium or prevent cardiovascular disease.

Collagen contributes to the mechanical stability of blood vessels. Elastin supports elasticity, while the endothelium regulates important vascular functions. However, the biological role of collagen does not in itself demonstrate the effectiveness of supplements.