Collagen is a protein naturally present in the extracellular matrix of many tissues (bones, muscles, joints, skin, blood vessels). It plays a major role in providing them with resistance and support throughout life.
Thanks to its so-called “anti-aging” properties, on joints and skin, it is also found in dietary supplements. And also in anti-wrinkle creams.
But it is also a protein involved in cancerous areas of people with this pathology. What is the link between collagen and cancer? Is it protective or conversely harmful ? Here is what I found on the subject.
Read also | Everything you need to know before buying marine collagen
The links between cancer and collagen protein
Collagen and cancer spread
The role of collagen in cancer progression has been extensively studied. However, the processes surrounding it remain complex and still unresolved.
During tumor growth, the surrounding extracellular matrix is remodeled, degraded, and replaced by a matrix specific to the tumor. This new matrix is often richer in collagen and more rigid.
In most cancers, it is observed that the increase in collagen is associated with a poor progression of the disease. Suggesting that the protein may have immunomodulatory functions, as indicated by this study.
It would activate certain receptors specific to tumor cells, particularly the DDR (discoidin domain receptors). Binding to these receptors could promote the proliferation of tumor cells and metastases.
Collagen as a biomarker for metastases
Collagen fragments are sometimes diagnostic markers for metastatic tumors. For example, one of its fragments is a validated biomarker for breast cancer cells metastasized to bone and constitutes an aid for prognosis.
This ability of collagen to potentially modulate cancer progression and resistance to chemotherapy opens doors for research into new treatments.
Does collagen protect against cancer?
Potential antitumor activity
Nonetheless, the collagen present in the body has also shown potential antitumor activities depending on the type of tumor. This is suggested by this study.
In certain situations, such as in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the deactivation of type I collagen expression accelerated the disease spread.
In this type of tumor, type I collagen can attach to tumor cells. And create a physical barrier preventing the dissemination of cancerous cells.
However, the slowing of the disease is only temporary. Since tumor cells produce molecules whose function is to degrade this collagen.
The role of collagen in metastasis dormancy
This study conducted in 2021 focused on metastasis development. It indicates that these dispersed cancer cells sometimes remain dormant for several years before becoming detectable.
In this context, the extracellular matrix of these cells is remodeled. It contains a large proportion of type III collagen.
When this collagen is disrupted via various signaling pathways, tumor proliferation is restored. These studies indicate there may be an opportunity to manipulate these mechanisms around collagen to maintain the dormancy of these metastases and actively combat cancer.
Collagen supplementation and cancer
Can collagen supplements promote cancer development?
Currently, no scientific evidence suggests that collagen intake by a healthy person can promote cancer development.
Supplements on the French market have undergone quality and safety tests that certify the safe intake of the collagen in question.
However, take your time when purchasing the supplement. I advise you to choose a quality product that does not contain heavy metals affecting health. Check the country of manufacture, and turn to a trusted brand.
If you have an existing condition, consult a healthcare professional before starting any dietary supplement regimen.
Can collagen supplementation have a protective effect?
Recent scientific studies focus on collagen naturally found in the body, and this does not concern oral supplements.
Marine collagen supplements aim to promote healthy skin and joints.
These are by no means medicinal treatments intended to have a curative action on cancer.
