fig12
Figure 12. Collagen protein, whether intact or partially hydrolysed, is enzymatically hydrolysed in the gut to amino acids, dipeptides and tripeptides, which allows for transport across the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream (A,B,C). Perfusion of peptides and amino acids and bioavailability in the ECM allows for stimulation of fibroblasts and collagen synthesis (D). (By permission of MINERVA Research Labs Ltd - London)