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Collagen Biochemistry — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateBiomedical SciencesCollagen BiochemistryNDEB AFK

Which amino acid is uniquely found in collagen and serves as a marker for collagen degradation?

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Correct answer: CHydroxyproline

Hydroxyproline is formed by post-translational hydroxylation of proline by prolyl hydroxylase (requiring vitamin C as a cofactor). It is virtually unique to collagen, and urinary hydroxyproline levels serve as a marker of collagen turnover and bone resorption. Glycine is present at every third position in collagen but is found in many other proteins.

Reference: Nanci – Ten Cate's Oral Histology, 9th ed., 2017