Collagen is the main component in connective tissue and helps to provide support for tissues. It is made up of several classes, with Type 1 collagen being the most common.

Type 1 collagen has a herterotrimeric triple helical structure made up of two alpha-1(I) and one alpha-2(I) chains that form into elongated fibrils which are extremely strong. These fibrils can be found in skin, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues.

Type 1 collagen has been shown to be useful as a substrate that promotes cell growth and proliferation. Under acidic conditions the protein is soluble, however by raising the temperature and pH the solution forms into a solid gel that can be useful for cellular studies. It can also be dried to form a thin layer on solid surfaces such as plates, slides, or coverslips to aid in cell attachment.