Type of collagen present in vitreous humor
**Core Concept**
Type II collagen is a type of collagen found in cartilaginous tissues, including the vitreous humor of the eye. The vitreous humor is a clear gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina, providing support and maintaining the shape of the eyeball.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Type II collagen is a fibrillar collagen that is rich in hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine residues, which contribute to its stability and resistance to enzymatic degradation. In the vitreous humor, type II collagen forms a network of fibers that interact with other components, such as hyaluronic acid and proteoglycans, to maintain the gel-like structure. The presence of type II collagen in the vitreous humor is essential for maintaining the transparency and optical clarity of the eye.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because type I collagen is primarily found in skin, bones, and tendons, and is not associated with the vitreous humor.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because type III collagen is found in blood vessels, muscle, and other tissues, but is not a major component of the vitreous humor.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because type IV collagen is a component of basement membranes, and is not associated with the vitreous humor.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The vitreous humor is a unique tissue that is composed of a network of collagen fibers, hyaluronic acid, and proteoglycans, which work together to maintain its gel-like structure and optical clarity.
**Correct Answer:** C. Type II collagen.