Magnesium plays a vital and multifaceted role in both the synthesis and structure of collagen:
Enzymatic Cofactor:
Magnesium ions act as cofactors in numerous ATP-dependent enzymatic reactions, including those necessary for collagen production and post-translational modification within cells.
Structural Stabilization:
(Mg2+) ions can chelate with collagen peptides, inducing and stabilizing their secondary structure (the triple helix).
Cell Signaling:
(Mg2+) binds to collagen and promotes the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) via integrin-mediated signaling pathways, which in turn leads to enhanced collagen matrix deposition and subsequent bone formation.
Wound Healing:
Magnesium promotes angiogenesis, cellular proliferation, and extracellular matrix remodeling, all of which are essential processes involving collagen for effective tissue regeneration and wound healing.
Bone Matrix:
In mature bone tissue, a small proportion of magnesium carbonate is conjugated to the primary hydroxyapatite crystals, which are themselves bound to the collagen matrix, contributing to the overall mineral structure.