Anti-Collagen X Recombinant Ra

Collagen X, encoded by the COL10A1 gene, is a short-chain, non-fibrillar collagen that plays a specialized role in endochondral ossification, the process by which cartilage is replaced by bone during skeletal development. It is predominantly produced by hypertrophic chondrocytes—the mature cartilage cells found in the growth plate of developing bones. Unlike structural collagens that form fibrils, collagen X forms a hexagonal lattice structure within the extracellular matrix (ECM), contributing to the mineralization of cartilage and the proper organization of the growth plate. This unique role makes collagen X essential for the transition from cartilage to bone, particularly in long bones. Mutations in COL10A1 are associated with Schmid metaphyseal chondrodysplasia, a rare skeletal disorder characterized by short stature, bowed legs, and growth plate abnormalities. Because of its restricted expression and role in bone development, collagen X is an important marker in chondrocyte differentiation, bone disease diagnostics, and tissue engineering.