Following amino acid form an integral part of collagen synthesis:
**Core Concept**
Collagen synthesis involves the incorporation of amino acids into a polypeptide chain, which then undergoes hydroxylation and cross-linking to form a triple-helix structure. The amino acids responsible for collagen synthesis play a crucial role in determining the strength and stability of the collagen molecule.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer involves amino acids that are hydroxylated and incorporated into the collagen chain. Proline and hydroxyproline are unique amino acids that are essential for the formation of collagen's triple-helix structure. Proline is a non-polar, cyclic amino acid that allows for the tight packing of collagen molecules, while hydroxyproline is formed through post-translational modification of proline and is a key component of collagen's triple-helix structure.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Glycine is the most abundant amino acid in collagen, but it is not hydroxylated and is not directly involved in the formation of the triple-helix structure.
**Option B:** Alanine is a non-essential amino acid that is not specifically involved in collagen synthesis.
**Option C:** Glutamine is an amino acid that can be hydroxylated, but it is not a key component of collagen's triple-helix structure.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The unique properties of collagen are due to the presence of proline and hydroxyproline, which are essential for the formation of the triple-helix structure. Deficiencies in collagen synthesis can lead to conditions such as osteogenesis imperfecta and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
**Correct Answer: C. Proline and hydroxyproline are integral parts of collagen synthesis.**