Collagenases catalyze the hydrolysis of peptide bonds in collagen, leading to its degradation. In humans, they target native collagen triple helices, cleaving them into smaller fragments, which are then further broken down by other proteases. This activity is essential for normal physiological processes, such as wound healing and tissue remodeling. However, excessive collagenase activity can contribute to pathological conditions like arthritis, cancer, and skin disorders.
