STABILIZATION OF THE COLLAGEN TRIPLE HELIX BY O-METHYLATION OF HYDROXYPROLINE RESIDUES

摘要

This invention relates to a collagen polypeptide comprising a tripeptide motif having the formula (ProYaaGly)_n, where Yaa is an O-methylated amino acid residue and “n” is the number of motif repeats. Preferred O-methylated amino acid residues at the Yaa position include (2S,4R)-4-methoxyproline. Other suitable amino acid residues at that position include O-mono or O-di-halogenated methylproline. Also, disclosed is a method of making a synthetic or a semi-synthetic collagen polypeptide molecule having increased stability relative to natural collagen. The strengthened collagen molecules are suitable for use in biomaterials for the medical field or in leather-related products prepared by the tanning industry.