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 giving them strength and support throughout life.
Thanks to its so-called ‘anti-aging’ properties for joints and skin, it is also found in dietary supplements. But also in anti-wrinkle creams.
But it is also a protein involved in the cancerous areas of people with this condition. What is the link between collagen and cancer? Is it protective or, on the contrary, harmful ? Here is what I found on the subject.
Read also | Everything you need to know before buying marine collagen
Links between cancer and the collagen protein
Collagen and the spread of cancer
The role of collagen in cancer progression has been already widely studied. But the processes surrounding it remain complex and not yet elucidated.
During tumor growth, the surrounding extracellular matrix is remodeled, degraded, and replaced by a tumor-specific matrix. This new matrix is often richer in collagen and stiffer.
In most cancers, it is observed that an increase in collagen is associated with poor disease outcome. This suggests that the protein may have immunomodulatory functions, as indicated by this study.
It would activate certain receptors specific to tumor cells, notably DDRs (discoidin domain receptors). Binding to these receptors could promote tumor cell proliferation and metastasis.
Collagen as a biomarker for metastases
Collagen fragments are sometimes diagnostic markers of metastatic tumors. For example, one of these fragments is a validated biomarker for breast cancer cells that have metastasized to bone and serves as an aid in making a prognosis.
This ability of collagen to potentially modulate cancer progression and resistance to chemotherapies opens doors for the development of new treatments.
Does collagen protect against cancer?
Potential antitumor activity
Nevertheless, collagen present in the body has also shown probable antitumor activities depending on the tumor type. This is suggested by this study.
In certain situations, such as in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the deactivation of type I collagen expression accelerated disease progression.
In this type of tumor, type I collagen can bind to tumor cells and create a physical barrier preventing the spread of cancer cells.
However, the slowing of the disease is only temporary, since tumor cells produce molecules that degrade this collagen.
The role of collagen in the dormancy of metastases
This study carried out in 2021 focused on the development of metastases. 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 high proportion of type III collagen.
When this collagen is disrupted through various signaling pathways, tumor proliferation is reactivated. These studies indicate that it might be possible to manipulate these collagen-related mechanisms to maintain the dormancy of these metastases and actively fight cancer.
Collagen supplementation and cancer
Can collagen supplements promote the development of cancer?
Currently, no scientific evidence suggests that taking collagen in a healthy person can promote the development of cancer.
Supplements on the French market have undergone quality and safety tests that certify the safe intake of the collagen in question.
Please take your time when purchasing a supplement. I advise you to choose a quality product that does not contain heavy metals impacting health. Check the country of manufacture, and turn to a trusted brand.
If you have a pre-existing condition, consult a healthcare professional before starting any course of dietary supplements.
Can collagen supplementation have a protective effect?
Recent scientific studies focus on the collagen naturally present in the body, and this is not about oral supplements.
Marine collagen dietary supplements are intended to support skin and joint health.
They are by no means medicinal treatments intended to have a curative effect on cancer.
