Collagen hereditary link. Collagen is one of the long, fibrous structural proteins whose functions are quite different from those of globular proteins, such as enzymes. Tough bundles of collagen called "collagen fibers" are a major component of the extracellular matrix that supports most tissues and gives cells structure from the outside, but collagen is also found inside certain cells. Collagen has great tensile strength, and is the main component of fascia, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, bone and skin. Along with elastin and soft keratin, it is responsible for skin strength and elasticity, and its degradation leads to wrinkles that accompany aging. It
Loose connective tissue skin. It is also found in the mesentery which is surrounding the intestine. Loose connective tissue is named based on the "weave" and type of its constituent fibers. There are three main types: Areolar tissue ( or ) is a common type of loose connective tissue (and the most widely distributed type of connective tissue in vertebrates). It is so named because its fibers are far enough apart to leave ample open space for interstitial fluid in between ("areola" is Latin for a "little open space"). It is strong enough to bind different tissue types together, yet soft enough to