Skip to main content

REVIEW article

Front. Phys., 16 May 2017
Sec. Medical Physics and Imaging
This article is part of the Research Topic Bone: Organic/Inorganic Matter Architecture and Mechanics View all 5 articles

Collagen Type I as a Ligand for Receptor-Mediated Signaling

  • 1Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
  • 2Shriners Hospitals for Children - Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada

Collagens form the fibrous component of the extracellular matrix in all multi-cellular animals. Collagen type I is the most abundant collagen present in skin, tendons, vasculature, as well as the organic portion of the calcified tissue of bone and teeth. This review focuses on numerous receptors for which collagen acts as a ligand, including integrins, discoidin domain receptors DDR1 and 2, OSCAR, GPVI, G6b-B, and LAIR-1 of the leukocyte receptor complex (LRC) and mannose family receptor uPARAP/Endo180. We explore the process of collagen production and self-assembly, as well as its degradation by collagenases and gelatinases in order to predict potential temporal and spatial sites of action of different collagen receptors. While the interactions of the mature collagen matrix with integrins and DDR are well-appreciated, potential signals from immature matrix as well as collagen degradation products are possible but not yet described. The role of multiple collagen receptors in physiological processes and their contribution to pathophysiology of diseases affecting collagen homeostasis require further studies.

Introduction

Collagen is the most abundant protein present in mammals, and forms the fibrous component of the extracellular matrix in all multi-cellular animals. In humans, different collagen types are present in connective tissues, including tendons, bones, and dentin, and play critical roles in defining the form and mechanical properties of diverse organs, such as bones, blood vessels, skin, and eyes [1]. In addition to classical fibrillar collagens forming uninterrupted triple helical fibrils, new families of collagen have been characterized as fibril-associated collagens with interrupted triple helices (FACITs), membrane-associated collagens with interrupted triple helices (MACITs), and multiple triple-helix domains and interruptions (MULTIPLEXINs) consisting of triple helical regions interspersed with non-helical domains (for recent in depth reviews of different types of collagen see Shoulders and Raines [2] and Ricard-Blum [3]). The most common fibrillar collagens are collagen types I, II, and III. Collagen type I is present in skin, tendons, vasculature, as well as organs such as lungs, heart and others, and forms the main component in the organic portion of the calcified tissue of bone and teeth [1, 3]. Collagen type II is the primary constituent of cartilage and collagen type III forms reticular fibers, commonly found alongside collagen type I [4]. While many consider fibrillar collagen biology as a textbook topic, it remains an active and exciting field of research. In particular, the recent discovery of numerous receptors for which collagen acts as a ligand indicates a much wider potential role for collagen than just a structural molecule. In this review we focus on collagen type I, and provide an overview of collagen receptors, highlight recent advances in collagen type I synthesis and degradation, discuss potential cellular signaling that can be induced by collagen, and its role in bone matrix physiology and pathology.

Collagen Receptors

Extracellular matrix proteins are well-known to interact with cells by directly binding to cell surface receptors [5]. Diverse families of receptors, including integrins, receptor tyrosine kinases, and immunoglobulin-like receptors have now been shown to use collagens as their cognate ligands (Figure 1).

FIGURE 1
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 1. Schematic representation of the stages of collagen turnover creating different forms of collagen (blue), different collagen receptors families (red) and individual receptors, and the cellular outcomes for collagen receptor-mediated signals (purple).

Integrins

Integrins are defined as cell adhesion structures, which are important in development and pathological processes. Integrins play critical roles in signaling, migration and survival of different cells (recently reviewed in depth by Barczyk et al. [5] and Iwamoto and Calderwood [6]). The signaling by these receptors is considered bi-directional, involving outside-in and inside-out signaling [5]. Integrins function as heterodimers, which in humans include one of 18 distinct α subunits and one of eight distinct β subunits, and are type I transmembrane glycoproteins with large extracellular and short cytoplasmic domains [6]. Four different integrin heterodimers (α1β1, α2β1, α10β1, and α11β1) have been demonstrated to bind collagen. In particular, α1β1 and α2β1 integrins have been most extensively studied. These integrins bind to both collagen types I and IV, however their affinities differ: α1β1 has a higher affinity for collagen type IV, while α2β1 preferentially binds to collagen type I [5, 7]. Integrin α2β1 has been reported to be one of the main collagen binding integrins present in bone and is critical for bone resorbing cells, osteoclasts. In these cells, α2β1 integrins affect the attachment of the cell to the bone surface and help form a sealing zone around the area to be resorbed, allowing formation of the localized highly acidic environment necessary for bone degradation [79].

Receptor Tyrosine Kinases

The two discoidin domain receptors, DDR1 and DDR2 are receptor tyrosine kinases activated specifically by fibrillar collagens I–III and V, but not by individual α-chains, denatured collagen, de-glycosylated, or degraded collagens [10]. A distinct characteristic of these receptors is their slow and sustained activation upon stimulation. Binding of the discoidin receptors to triple helical collagen leads to tyrosine autophosphorylation with unique activation kinetics, which is followed by receptor internalization [11, 12]. Imbalance or dysregulation of DDR1 has been implicated in the development of diseases such as fibrosis, atherosclerosis, arthritis, and cancer [10]. DDR1-null mice are predisposed to osteoarthritis and temporomandibular joint disorder [13], but are protected from atherosclerosis and smooth muscle mineralization [14]. DDR1 function can be controlled by ADAM10-mediated ectodomain shedding [15]. DDR2 is involved in pathological scarring processes such as wound healing, arthritis, and cancer [16, 17]. DDR2-deficient mice exhibit dwarfism due to reduced proliferation of chondrocytes [18].

Leukocyte Receptor Complex (LRC)

The leukocyte receptor complex (LRC) consists of a large group of cell surface receptors, essential for a diverse number of immune functions, including antiviral immunity, autoimmunity, and response to grafts [19]. A typical characteristic of these receptors is the occurrence of pairs of antipathetic receptors, which bind to the same ligands but generate opposing signaling responses [20]. The majority of LRC receptors are primarily expressed by immune cells and play diverse roles in modulating their activity [19, 20]. The stimulatory receptors have short cytoplasmic tails and generate positive signals through immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAM) present on the required adapter proteins, FcRγ, DAP10, and DAP12. The inhibitory receptors are characterized by long cytoplasmic tails, which contain immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIM) [19, 20]. Of interest, collagen has been recently demonstrated to act as a ligand for a number of stimulatory and inhibitory receptors in this family, including osteoclast associated receptor (OSCAR), GPVI, and LAIR-1 [2123]. The structural basis for collagen recognition by the immune receptors has been investigated in a number of studies [2427], however some controversy regarding the alignment of collagen-recognition sites among different receptors exists.

OSCAR and GPVI are stimulatory receptors that are activated by collagen. OSCAR is particularly important for osteoclast differentiation, as it acts as a critical co-stimulatory receptor for osteoclast formation and function [23, 2628]. GPVI is mainly found in platelets and binds to collagen during the process of blood coagulation [21]. The binding of collagen to OSCAR or GPVI results in the recruitment of ITAM-containing FcRγ chains. For OSCAR, the main downstream effect of activation is the initiation of calcium signaling, which is critically important for activation of a key osteoclastogenic transcription factor, nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) c1. Activation of GPVI leads to the binding of Syk to the FcR-γ chain, which causes an activation of Syk proteins and tyrosine phosphorylation. At the same time, phospholipase C γ2 (PLCγ2) also becomes activated [29, 30].

The inhibitory receptor LAIR-1 was also shown to be activated by collagen [31]. Another inhibitory receptor G6b-B may also act as a collagen-binding receptor, although the existing evidence is weaker [32]. Both LAIR-1 and G6b-B were first identified to be expressed on megakaryocytes and platelets and to negatively regulate their function [22, 33]. LAIR-1 was also found to be present during osteoclastogenesis and to inhibit this process [34]. LAIR-1 is activated by triple helical collagen, specifically when it encounters the triplet (GPO)10 (glycine-proline-hydroxyproline)10, also known as “collagen related peptide” [31]. LAIR-1 contains two ITIMs, which upon phosphorylation recruit SHP-1 and SHP-2 phosphatases. These phosphatases directly dephosphorylate Syk, Zap70, and PLCγ, preventing ITAM-mediated stimulation of protein kinases and calcium signaling [22, 31]. G6b-B was suggested to be activated by collagen fragments, such as the collagen-related peptide, likely relevant to the microenvironment of damaged epithelium [32, 33]. G6b-B contains one ITIM as well as a newly described immunoreceptor tyrosine-based switch motif (ITSM) [33, 35]. In contrast to ITIM, which generally signals through activation of phosphatases, ITSM interferes with ITAM-mediated signaling by using adaptor molecules. An important characteristic of this motif is the ability to switch between stimulatory and inhibitory signals and to bind SHP1, SHP2, SHIP, and p85 [36]. In platelets, G6b-B interferes with positive signaling induced by collagen binding to GPVI [37].

uPARAP/Endo180

The urokinase plasminogen activator receptor-associated protein (uPARAP/Endo180), a member of the mannose receptor family of type I transmembrane glycoproteins, is a multi-domain transmembrane glycoprotein. Characteristically this family of proteins includes an N-terminal, cysteine-rich/ricin B like domain, a fibronectin type II domain, and a series of 8–10 C-type lectin-like domains. This mesenchymal cell surface receptor has an important function in collagen internalization [3840]. In addition, uPARAP/Endo180 was shown to aid in the initial adhesion of fibroblasts to collagen and to accelerate the migration of these cells on a fibrillar collagen matrix [38, 39, 41, 42]. In bone, this receptor is highly expressed on osteoblasts and osteocytes at sites of endochondral and intramembranous ossification during development [38].

Thus, multiple receptor families can bind collagen and induce a variety of cellular effects. Although the repertoire of cellular responses affected by collagen receptors appears to be similar, with adhesion, migration and survival being prominent on the list, it is interesting that the receptors can bind to different forms of collagen, including large triple helical fragments, matrix-incorporated collagen fibrils, and small collagen fragments. Next, we will consider the process of collagen turnover and identify the physiological stages during which different forms of collagen can act as effectors of receptor-mediated signaling.

Potential Signaling Induced During Collagen Synthesis by Osteoblasts

In hard tissues, collagen is produced by highly specialized cells of mesenchymal origin, termed osteoblasts in bone tissue and odontoblasts for dentin. All fibrillar collagen molecules are formed from three polypeptide chains, termed α chains, which are wound into a right-handed triple helix to form a cord-like structure. The triple helical regions of collagen are characterized by the presence of a glycine residue at every third position (Gly-X-Y)n, the other two positions being rich in proline or hydroxyproline. Since glycine residues only have a hydrogen atom as their “side chain,” the polypeptide can pack itself into a super helical structure [1, 43]. The triple helices of collagen type I are formed from two α1 chains and one α2 chain, which are the products of the different genes, COL1A1 and COL1A2. Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heritable disease characterized by high bone fragility. The large majority of patients with OI have disease-causing dominant mutations in one of the two genes that code for collagen type I alpha chains, COL1A1 and COL1A2 [44]. Interestingly, a number of patients with the clinical presentation of OI were found to have normal collagen type I, but mutations in other proteins with previously unknown function. Investigation of these proteins, which include cartilage-associated protein (CRTAP), prolyl 3-hydroxylase 1 (P3H1), cyclophilin B (CyPB), pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), heat shock protein 47 (HSP47), and FK506 binding protein 65 (FKBP65), resulted in a greater understanding of the regulation of collagen type I production and assembly [45, 46].

The procollagen type I α chain genes are transcribed and processed from COL1A1 and COL1A2 to mRNAs. Direct translation to the pro-α1 and α2 chains occurs in the rough endoplasmic reticulum [2]. The procollagen has extensions on each end, termed amino and carboxyl procollagen propeptides. These extensions increase the solubility of the peptide and assist its movement within the cell during the process of post-translational modification. One of these modifications is the hydroxylation of specific proline and lysine residues [47, 48]. The prolyl 3-hydroxylation complex is a post-translational collagen modification system present in the endoplasmic reticulum, and consists of CRTAP, P3H1, and CyPB. The complex modifies a single proline residue (Pro 986) to 3-hydroxyproline on each α1 chain of type I and II collagen [49, 50]. Mutations in CRTAP, P3H1/LEPRE1, or PPIB (the gene that encodes cyclophilin B) strongly affect post-translational modifications of collagen resulting in a complete absence of proline 3-hydroxylation in the case of mutations in CRTAP, P3H1, and site-specific alterations in the hydroxylation and glycosylation of collagen, in the case of mutations in PPIB [49, 51, 52]. Consequently, collagen folding is delayed [49, 5254] and a change in fibril assembly, cross-linking, and bone mineralization occurs [51, 52, 54]. The newly formed hydroxylysine residues are glycosylated by the addition of monosaccharides, such as galactose and glucose. This step is carried out by glycosyl transferases and gives the new collagen molecule unique chemical and structural characteristics [55]. The C-terminal region of the procollagen molecules contains cysteine residues that form intermolecular disulfide bonds, facilitating the registration of the three procollagen chains. When the appropriate alignment is reached, the three chains wrap around each other to form a string-like structure [3]. After all the modifications are complete and the triple helix is formed, the molecules of procollagen are transported along microtubules, organized in the Golgi apparatus, and eventually secreted into the extracellular space [56]. In a homozygous patient with HSP47 missense mutation, it was demonstrated that HSP47, potentially acting in cooperation with immunophilin FKBP65, encoded by FKBP10, is important for proper trafficking of type I procollagen to the Golgi [57]. Mutations in FKBP10 also cause moderately severe osteogenesis imperfecta [58, 59] with decreased collagen cross-linking, resulting in sparsity and disorder of collagen fibril deposition [60].

Extracellularly, procollagen is processed by procollagen proteases, which are responsible for removing the extension peptides from both ends of the molecule. The N-terminal is processed by enzymes like a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)-2, -3, and -14, while bone matrix protein-1 (BMP-1) is responsible for the C-terminal processing, resulting in the formation of N-telopeptide (NTP) and C-telopeptide (CTP), respectively [6163]. Mutations in the collagen type I C-propeptide cleavage site disrupt extracellular collagen processing, resulting in osteogenesis imperfecta [64]. Mutations in BMP1 similarly result in decreased collagen maturation, hyperosteoidosis, and hypermineralization [65]. Interestingly, mutations in SERPINF1, the gene that encodes PEDF, lead to osteogenesis imperfecta type VI, which has a phenotype of a disorganized bone matrix, large amount of unmineralized osteoid, and abnormal mineralization pattern, similar to the phenotype observed in OI due to mutations at the collagen type I C-propeptide cleavage site or in BMP1, suggesting that PEDF may also play a role in procollagen processing [6669]. It has been noted that the rate of bone formation positively correlates with CTP levels, which lead to its use as a marker of osteoblastic bone formation [70, 71]. Once the triple helical collagen molecules lacking their extension peptides are formed in the extracellular space, the process of the fiber formation commences [3].

Receptors Potentially Activated by Triple-Helical Collagen

Two classes of receptors, including those of LRC and of mannose-receptor family, have been shown respond to triple-helical collagen which is not necessarily incorporated in the matrix (Figure 1). In particular, the uPARAP/Endo180 receptor was found on early osteoblast precursors as well as actively matrix-producing osteoblasts [72, 73]. While this receptor has been implicated in osteoblast recruitment to the remodeling sites [73], this function can likely be attributed only to early precursors, but not to mature cells. It is thus possible that additional regulation may be exerted by this receptor present on mature osteoblasts. From the LRC family, OSCAR and LAIR-1 have been shown to be expressed by osteoclasts [28, 34]. It is possible that LAIR-1-mediated inhibition of osteoclastogenesis contributes to the prevention of premature activation of resorption at the sites of freshly laid down osteoid. It is also interesting to speculate that formation of the two fragments, NTP and CTP, during procollagen processing may generate soluble and thus longer-reaching signals for the receptors activated by smaller collagen fragments. Abnormal signaling though collagen receptors can also potentially contribute to the pathophysiology of OI, as it commonly results in abnormal collagen modification and thus would significantly alter receptor-ligand interactions.

Formation of Collagenous Bone Matrix

Individual collagen molecules are first assembled into collagen fibrils, which in turn combine to form fibers, which give the tissue its structural properties. Collagen fibril formation begins with the post-translational modification by the copper-containing enzyme lysyl oxidase, which oxidizes the peptidyl lysine residues to facilitate the formation of covalent intra- and inter-molecular bonds, also known as crosslinks [74]. Lysyl oxidase has been found extracellularly, intracellularly as well as in the nucleus, and was reported to have diverse and important roles in the human body such as developmental regulation, tumor suppression, cell motility, and cellular senescence [74]. After the covalent bonds are formed between the tropocollagen chains, triple helical molecules line up and collagen fibrils are formed. The triple helical tropocollagen molecule is 300 nm long, 1.5 nm in diameter, and consists of two α1(I) chains and one α2(I) chain [75, 76]. Another enzyme important for the crosslinking of the collagen fibers is tissue transglutaminase 2, which specifically mediates the reaction between the side chains of glutamine and lysine residues of adjacent fibers resulting in formation of ε(γ-glutamyl) lysine crosslinks, covalent amide bonds that reinforce the three dimensional structure [77, 78]. The collagen fibers are cable-like bundles, 50–200 μm in diameter that are visible under the light microscope [75, 76]. Collagen type I in skin and bone is formed of the same two α1 and one α2 chains. However, post-translational modifications and crosslinking differ between bone and skin fibrils, giving tissue-specific properties to the final extracellular matrix [75].

In bone, after collagen maturation is completed, matrix mineralization during which calcium and phosphate precipitate to form crystals of hydroxyapatite [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2] within the organic matrix proceeds [79]. The localization and orientation of individual crystals is guided by specific organic moieties on collagen type I and non-collagenous proteins present in bone matrix [80]. Finally, bone tissue is formed as a composite material containing a precise mixture of macromolecules and hydroxyapatite crystals.

Receptors Potentially Activated by Matrix-Incorporated Collagen

The majority of the collagen receptors are assumed to be activated by collagen present in mature matrix. The evidence for a physiological significance of such interactions is strongest for members of the integrin receptor family, which are well-known for their substrate-recognition roles [81]. Positive responses, such as support of cell adhesion, survival, migration, and proliferation result from collagen interacting with integrin receptors α1β1 and α2β1 [5], receptor tyrosine kinases DDR1 and DDR2 [12], LRC member OSCAR [23], and mannose family receptor uPARAP [38]. Inhibitory cellular effects have been observed upon stimulation of LAIR-1 with collagen [22, 32]. It is particularly interesting, that osteoclasts express both the stimulatory collagen receptor OSCAR [28] and an inhibitory receptor LAIR-1 [34]. However, if we assume that OSCAR and LAIR-1 are expressed at different stages of osteoclastogenesis, we can attempt to reconcile how contradictory collagen signals can be perceived by these cells. We can speculate that LAIR-1 is present on early precursors, and that its role is to prohibit osteoclast differentiation on immature matrix, while OSCAR is expressed later during osteoclastogenesis and is engaged by the matrix-incorporated collagen to support osteoclast formation on the correct substrate. While extensive studies on the role of OSCAR during osteoclast formation have been performed [23, 26, 28], much less is known about the temporal and spatial aspects of regulation of osteoclastogenesis by LAIR-1. In diseases associated with abnormal collagen synthesis, such as OI, as well as abnormal mineralization, for example osteomalacia due to calcium and phosphate deficiency, the structure of the mature tissue matrix is altered, which may potentially result in changes in receptor-ligand binding for collagen receptors, contributing to the pathophysiology of these disorders.

Potential Signaling Induced by Collagen Degradation

Bone mineral together with the organic matrix is physiologically removed by osteoclasts. Similarly, during tooth eruption, odontoclasts resorb the deciduous tooth roots in order to provide space for the eruption of permanent teeth [82]. By tightly attaching to the bone matrix, osteoclasts form a sealed phagolysosomal compartment underneath the cell, where vacuolar type H+-ATPase in the plasma membrane of ruffled borders releases protons to lower the extracellular pH and dissolve hydroxyapatite mineral. Concomitantly, proteolytic enzymes are released to digest the organic matrix [83, 84]. Proteases (also termed peptidases or proteinases) hydrolyze the peptide bonds that link amino acids together in the polypeptide chains forming proteins. Due to the closely packed nature of the mature triple helix, collagens are resistant to attack by most proteases, however, specialized proteases termed collagenases are able to hydrolyze these molecules [76]. The most important collagenases are the papain-like cysteine protease cathepsin K and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) [85, 86]. Within the MMP family, MMP-1, MMP-8, MMP-13, and MMP-14 are specifically capable of degrading triple-helical fibrillar collagens, while MMP-2 and MMP-9 act after the triple helix is unwound and are termed gelatinases. MMP-13 and MMP-9 are particularly important for bone resorption (Table 1).

TABLE 1
www.frontiersin.org

Table 1. Collagen-degrading enzymes.

Cathepsin K

Cathepsin K, a member of the C1 peptidase family, is expressed by osteoclasts at the cell surface adjacent to the bone and was shown to be critical for matrix breakdown in the resorption compartment during bone remodeling [86, 87]. The protease works optimally at low pH and has been shown to degrade type I collagen [85]. Both the α1 and α2 collagen type I chains are cleaved by cathepsin K [88]. The protein cleavage site of papain-like cysteine proteases, including cathepsin K, is determined by the amino acids occupying the two positions before (N-terminal to) the cleavage site and one or two positions after the cleavage site. Generally, a hydrophobic side chain such as valine, leucine, or proline is found in the second residue before the cleavage site, whereas the amino acid directly before the cleavage site is usually glutamic acid, alanine, or glycine. Finally, in the position after the cleavage site, the most common amino acids are glycine, glutamic acid, and/or isoleucine [87, 89]. Overall, it has been found that cathepsin K performs a cleavage after helical cross-linking residues, which in collagen type I is most likely to occur after glycine due to high prevalence of GXY repeats [90]. Cathepsin K was shown to cleave substrates with proline in the second amino acid position after the cleavage site [91], which is critical for its ability to target collagen [87, 92].

Since cathepsin K is the only papain-like cysteine protease capable of cleaving triple helical collagen, it is of significant interest as a pharmaceutical target [90, 93]. Structural analysis revealed that for cathepsin K to demonstrate its collagenase activity, a dimer has to form an oligomeric complex with a glycosaminoglycan and dock onto a collagen molecule with its central grove [92, 94, 95]. The presence of glycosaminoglycans allows access to the triple helix, leading to the cutting of the fibril into smaller sub-fibrils and a simultaneous release of glycosaminoglycans. This process eventually results in a progressive unfolding of the fibrils, making them less stable and therefore accessible for further degradation [96]. Cathepsins that do not exhibit collagenase activity, such as cathepsins L, V, S, and B have only a limited effect on the fibril structures [96]. In addition to bone, cathepsin K is also expressed in hematopoietic, epithelial, and fibroblast cells, and was shown to play a role in arthritis, obesity, schizophrenia, bone metastases, and various other pathological conditions [89].

In humans, mutations in the cathepsin K gene were shown to underlie the skeletal disorder pycnodysostosis, which is characterized by osteopetrosis, bone fragility, short stature, acrosteolysis of the distal phalanges, delayed cranial suture closure, clavicular dysplasia, and dental abnormalities [97, 98]. In animal models, cathepsin K deficiency results in an osteopetrotic bone phenotype [99101] and has been shown to predispose mice to lung fibrosis [102], abnormal airway morphologies [103] and deficiencies in learning and memory aptitudes [104]. Even though the osteoclast numbers were not changed in cathepsin K deficient mice, large areas of demineralized bone matrix underlying the ruffled borders of osteoclasts were frequently found, suggesting that only the degradation of organic bone matrix is impaired in these animals [99, 100]. Once cathepsin K cleaves the triple helix, it unwinds and becomes available for degradation by any protease with gelatinolytic activity. Interestingly in cathepsin K knockout mice, osteoclastic resorption, though severely impaired, was still present [99] due to involvement of other proteases with collagenase activity, such as the matrix metalloproteinases [101].

Matrix Metalloproteinases

The matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), peptidase family M10, is composed of zinc-dependent endopeptidases, also known as the metzincin superfamily. The main task of MMPs is to degrade extracellular matrix proteins, as well as a number of bioactive molecules [87, 105, 106]. Within the MMP family of endopeptidases, MMP-1, MMP-8, MMP-13, and MMP-14 exhibit collagenase activity and are specifically capable of degrading triple-helical fibrillar collagens [106, 107]. MMP-1 and MMP-13 are produced by osteoclasts and play important roles in bone matrix degradation. After the triple helix is separated, MMP-2 and MMP-9 can further cleave collagen chains working as gelatinases. The MMP family members with collagenase activity require at least three structural components to successfully achieve their function: (i) a hemopexin-like C-terminal domain, (ii) a linker or hinge region between the catalytic and hemopexin domain, and (iii) a specific peptide loop in the catalytic domain [108, 109]. Collagen type I is cleaved by MMP-1, -8, and -13 at a characteristic site located between Gly775/Ile776, three quarters of the distance from the N-terminus, leading to the formation of two fragments—a larger fragment of ¾ and a smaller ¼ fragment [107, 110, 111].

MMP-1, also known as interstitial collagenase or fibroblast collagenase, is involved in the breakdown of extracellular matrix in normal physiological processes, such as embryonic development, reproduction, and tissue remodeling, as well as in disease processes, such as arthritis and cancer metastasis [106, 112, 113]. Osteoblasts have been demonstrated to produce MMP-1, which may affect their differentiation [114]. In addition, MMP-1 was shown to be upregulated in response to mechanical loading [115]. However, it is not clear if MMP-1 activity toward collagen type I is important for osteoblasts. While MMP-1 is not generally found to be expressed by osteoclasts, there is evidence that it may be involved in bone resorption in pathological conditions [113, 116, 117].

MMP-13 is involved in the degradation of extracellular matrix for tumor invasion and metastasis [84] and is a critical collagenase MMP for osteoclastic bone resorption [86]. Mutations in MMP-13 cause metaphyseal anadysplasia 1, which includes the Missouri type of spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia, a spectrum of diseases characterized by defective growth and severe skeletal changes that resolve spontaneously with age [118, 119]. This protease is more aggressive to collagen type II than to type I, therefore the effects are more prominent in the joints [120, 121]. In animal models, overexpression of MMP-13 produces arthritis with cartilage erosion [122]. Knockout of MMP-13 shows temporary anomalies in cartilage resorption in long bone growth and fracture healing. While these animals have a normal lifespan and sufficient fertility, microscopic analyses of the skeletal system verified profound defects in the growth plate cartilage with a clear intensification in the hypertrophic chondrocyte zone and a delay in primary ossification [121, 123].

Gelatinases

The main gelatinase expressed and released by osteoclasts is MMP-9 [124]. MMP-9 participates in dissolution of bone collagens working inside the sealing zone located underneath the osteoclast, in concert with collagenases MMP-13 and cathepsin K [125]. MMP-9-deficient animals exhibit a skeletal development phenotype, and chondrocyte apoptosis [126]. In addition, vascularization and ossification of cartilage is significantly delayed [126]. The role of MMP-9 in bone resorption is not clear, however it was demonstrated that in the absence of MMP-9 osteoclastic recruitment is delayed and that MMP-9 is required for osteoclast invasion into the discontinuously mineralized hypertrophic cartilage [127]. Mutations in MMP-9 result in metaphyseal anadysplasia 2, which is phenotypically indistinguishable from metaphyseal anadysplasia 1 due to mutations in MMP-13 [119]. A dominant, more severe phenotype of metaphyseal anadysplasia was found to be associated with deactivation of both MMP-13 and MMP-9 [119].

Receptors Potentially Activated by Degraded Collagen

Physiological degradation of collagen can result in production of shorter triple-helical proteins, along with single strand fragments of different molecular weight [86, 128]. Such fragments can potentially activate the receptors of LRC, GPVI, LAIR-1, and G6b-B, as well as uPARAP/Endo180. Since LAIR-1 is expressed by osteoclasts [34] and uPARAP/Endo180 by osteoblasts [129], it is possible that such signals mediate temporal and spatial coordination of collagen matrix formation and degradation. In addition, formation of circulating fragments, such as those used as biomarkers of bone resorption [130], raises a possibility of long-distance signals generated during collagen degradation. In pycnodysostosis and metaphyseal anadysplasia, mutations in cathepsin K and MMP-9 and MMP-13 result in altered collagen degradation, thus producing different collagen fragments, potentially interfering with collagen receptor signaling.

Conclusions

Collagen is the main component in many tissues in the human body, particularly in bone tissue where this protein forms 90–95% of the organic matrix. Even though collagen is one of the best studied molecules, many questions remain regarding its physiology as highlighted by a high number of poorly understood disorders associated with collagen production and degradation, including genetic diseases such as osteogenesis imperfecta and metaphyseal anadysplasia, and inflammatory disorders such as arthritis and periodontitis. From the perspective of its temporally and spatially controlled self-assembly, collagen is a fascinating molecule that undergoes many precise, yet not fully understood transitions from its initial translation product to the final mature fiber. Moreover, bone tissue is remodeled continuously, which brings into focus the importance of a regulated degradation of collagen, as well as other components of the extracellular matrix. The collagen substrate structural signals mediated by integrins have been well-appreciated since the 1980s. The discovery of numerous novel receptors for collagen highlights the possibility of previously unknown aspects of collagen biology. The role of these receptors in physiological processes and their contribution to pathophysiology of diseases affecting collagen homeostasis require further studies.

Author Contributions

IB, JM, and SK contributed to the conceptual planning; IB and JW designed and performed literature analysis, IB wrote the first draft of the manuscript. All authors critically revised the manuscript.

Funding

This work was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (grant MOP-137091 to SK). IB is supported by the Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, and by Réseau de Recherche en Santé Buccodentaire et Osseuse.

Conflict of Interest Statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

References

1. Hulmes DJC. Collagen Diversity, Synthesis and Assembly. In: Fratzl P. editor. Collagen: Structure and Mechanics, Springer Science + Business Media, LLC (2008).

Google Scholar

2. Shoulders MD, Raines RT. Collagen structure and stability. Annu Rev Biochem. (2009) 78:929. doi: 10.1146/annurev.biochem.77.032207.120833

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

3. Ricard-Blum S. The collagen family. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol. (2011) 3:a004978. doi: 10.1101/cshperspect.a004978

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

4. Wess TJ Collagen Fibrillar Structure and Hierarchies. In Fratzl P. editor. Collagen: Structure and Mechanics, Springer Science + Business Media, LLC (2008).

5. Barczyk M, Carracedo S, Gullberg D. Integrins. Cell Tissue Res. (2010) 339:269–80. doi: 10.1007/s00441-009-0834-6

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

6. Iwamoto DV, Calderwood DA. Regulation of integrin-mediated adhesions. Curr Opin Cell Biol. (2015) 36:41–7. doi: 10.1016/j.ceb.2015.06.009

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

7. Xu Y, Gurusiddappa S, Rich RL, Owens RT, Keene DR, Mayne R, et al. Multiple binding sites in collagen type I for the integrins α1β1 and α2β1. J. Biol Chem. (2000) 275:38981–9. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M007668200

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

8. Helfrich MH, Nesbitt SA, Lakkakorpi PT, Barnes MJ, Bodary SC, Shankar G, et al. β1 integrins and osteoclast function: involvement in collagen recognition and bone resorption. Bone (1996) 19:317–28. doi: 10.1016/S8756-3282(96)00223-2

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

9. Rodan SB, Rodan GA. Integrin function in osteoclasts. J Endocrinol. (1997) 154:S47–56.

Google Scholar

10. Iwai L, Luczynski M, Huang P. Discoidin domain receptors: a proteomic portrait. Cell Mol Life Sci. (2014) 71:3269–79. doi: 10.1007/s00018-014-1616-1

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

11. Carafoli F, Hohenester E. Collagen recognition and transmembrane signalling by discoidin domain receptors. Biochim Biophys Acta (2013) 1834:2187–94. doi: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2012.10.014

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

12. Fu HL, Valiathan RR, Arkwright R, Sohail A, Mihai C, Kumarasiri M, et al. Discoidin domain receptors: unique receptor tyrosine kinases in collagen-mediated signaling. J Biol Chem. (2013) 288:7430–7. doi: 10.1074/jbc.R112.444158

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

13. Schminke B, Muhammad H, Bode C, Sadowski B, Gerter R, Gersdorff N, et al. A discoidin domain receptor 1 knock-out mouse as a novel model for osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint. Cell Mol Life Sci. (2014) 71:1081–96. doi: 10.1007/s00018-013-1436-8

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

14. Ahmad PJ, Trcka D, Xue S, Franco C, Speer MY, Giachelli CM, et al. Discoidin domain receptor-1 deficiency attenuates atherosclerotic calcification and smooth muscle cell-mediated mineralization. Am J Pathol. (2009) 175:2686–96. doi: 10.2353/ajpath.2009.080734

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

15. Shitomi Y, Thøgersen IB, Ito N, Leitinger B, Enghild JJ, Itoh Y. ADAM10 controls collagen signaling and cell migration on collagen by shedding the ectodomain of discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1). Mol Biol Cell (2015) 26:659–73. doi: 10.1091/mbc.E14-10-1463

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

16. Vogel W. Discoidin domain receptors: structural relations and functional implications. FASEB J (1999) 13:77–82.

Google Scholar

17. Olaso E, Lin HC, Wang LH, Friedman SL. Impaired dermal wound healing in discoidin domain receptor 2-deficient mice associated with defective extracellular matrix remodeling. Fibrogenesis Tissue Repair (2011) 4:5. doi: 10.1186/1755-1536-4-5

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

18. Yancopoulos G, Labrador JP, Angel P, Azcoitia V, Tuckermann J, Martínez AC, et al. The collagen receptor DDR2 regulates proliferation and its elimination leads to dwarfism. EMBO Rep. (2001) 2:446–52. doi: 10.1093/embo-reports/kve094

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

19. Martin AM, Kulski JK, Witt C, Pontarotti P, Christiansen FT. Leukocyte Ig-like receptor complex (LRC) in mice and men. Trends Immunol. (2002) 23:81–8. doi: 10.1016/S1471-4906(01)02155-X

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

20. Barrow AD, Trowsdale J. The extended human leukocyte receptor complex: diverse ways of modulating immune responses. Immunol. Rev. (2008) 224:98–123. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-065X.2008.00653.x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

21. Nieswandt B, Watson SP. Platelet-collagen interaction: is GPVI the central receptor? Blood (2003) 102:449–61. doi: 10.1182/blood-2002-12-3882

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

22. Meyaard L. The inhibitory collagen receptor LAIR-1 (CD305). J Leukoc Biol. (2008) 83:799–803. doi: 10.1189/jlb.0907609

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

23. Barrow AD, Raynal N, Andersen TL, Slatter DA, Bihan D, Pugh N, et al. OSCAR is a collagen receptor that costimulates osteoclastogenesis in DAP12-deficient humans and mice. J Clin Invest. (2011) 121:3505–16. doi: 10.1172/JCI45913

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

24. Horii K, Kahn ML, Herr AB. Structural basis for platelet collagen responses by the immune-type receptor glycoprotein VI. Blood (2006) 108:936–42. doi: 10.1182/blood-2006-01-010215

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

25. Brondijk TH, de Ruiter T, Ballering J, Wienk H, Lebbink RJ, van Ingen H., et al. Crystal structure and collagen-binding site of immune inhibitory receptor LAIR-1: unexpected implications for collagen binding by platelet receptor GPVI. Blood (2010) 115:1364–73. doi: 10.1182/blood-2009-10-246322

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

26. Haywood J, Qi J, Chen CC, Lu G, Liu Y, Yan J, et al. Structural basis of collagen recognition by human osteoclast-associated receptor and design of osteoclastogenesis inhibitors. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. (2016) 113:1038–43. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1522572113

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

27. Zhou L, Hinerman JM, Blaszczyk M, Miller JL, Conrady DG, Barrow AD, et al. Structural basis for collagen recognition by the immune receptor OSCAR. Blood (2016) 127:529–37. doi: 10.1182/blood-2015-08-667055

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

28. Kim N, Takami M, Rho J, Josien R, Choi Y. A novel member of the leukocyte receptor complex regulates osteoclast differentiation. J Exp Med. (2002) 195:201–9. doi: 10.1084/jem.20011681

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

29. Asselin J, Gibbins JM, Achison M, Lee YH, Morton LF, Farndale RW, et al. A collagen-like peptide stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation of syk and phospholipase Cγ2 in platelets independent of the integrin α2β1. Blood (1997) 89:1235–42.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

30. Watson SP, Auger JM, McCarty OJT, Pearce AC. GPVI and integrin αIIbβ3 signaling in platelets. J Thromb Haemost. (2005) 3:1752–62. doi: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2005.01429.x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

31. Lebbink RJ, de Ruiter T, Adelmeijer J, Brenkman AB, van Helvoort JM, Koch M, et al. Collagens are functional, high affinity ligands for the inhibitory immune receptor LAIR-1. J Exp Med. (2006) 203:1419–25. doi: 10.1084/jem.20052554

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

32. Senis YA, Tomlinson MG, García Á, Dumon S, Heath VL, Herbert J, et al. A comprehensive proteomics and genomics analysis reveals novel transmembrane proteins in human platelets and mouse megakaryocytes including G6b-B, a novel immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif protein. Mol Cell Prot. (2007) 6:548–64. doi: 10.1074/mcp.D600007-MCP200

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

33. Coxon CH, Sadler AJ, Huo J, Campbell RD, Buday L. An Investigation of hierachical protein recruitment to the inhibitory platelet receptor, G6B-b. PLoS ONE (2012) 7:e49543. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049543

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

34. Zhang Y, Ding Y, Huang Y, Zhang C, Boquan J, Ran Z. Expression of leukocyte-associated immunoglobulin-like receptor-1 (LAIR-1) on osteoclasts and its potential role in rheumatoid arthritis. Clinics (2013) 68:475–81. doi: 10.6061/clinics/2013(04)07

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

35. Newland SA, MacAulay IC, Floto AR, de Vet EC, Ouwehand WH, Watkins NA, et al. The novel inhibitory receptor G6B is expressed on the surface of platelets and attenuates platelet function in vitro. Blood (2007) 109:4806–9. doi: 10.1182/blood-2006-09-047449

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

36. El Firar A, Voisin T, Rouyer-Fessard C, Ostuni MA, Couvineau A, Laburthe M. Discovery of a functional immunoreceptor tyrosine-based switch motif in a 7-transmembrane-spanning receptor: role in the orexin receptor OX1R-driven apoptosis. FASEB J. (2009) 23:4069–80. doi: 10.1096/fj.09-131367

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

37. Mori J, Pearce AC, Spalton JC, Grygielska B, Eble JA, Tomlinson MG, et al. G6b-B inhibits constitutive and agonist-induced signaling by glycoprotein VI and CLEC-2. J Biol Chem. (2008) 283:35419–27. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M806895200

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

38. Engelholm LH, List K, Netzel-Arnett S, Cukierman E, Mitola DJ, Aaronson H, et al. uPARAP/Endo180 is essential for cellular uptake of collagen and promotes fibroblast collagen adhesion. J Cell Biol. (2003) 160:1009–15. doi: 10.1083/jcb.200211091

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

39. Jürgensen HJ, Madsen DH, Ingvarsen S, Melander MC, Gårdsvoll H, Patthy L, et al. A novel functional role of collagen glycosylation: interaction with the endocytic collagen receptor uparap/ENDO180. J Biol Chem. (2011) 286:32736–48. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M111.266692

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

40. Jürgensen HJ, Johansson K, Madsen DH, Porse A, Melander MC, Sørensen KR, et al. Complex determinants in specific members of the mannose receptor family govern collagen endocytosis. J Biol Chem. (2014) 289:7935–47. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M113.512780

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

41. Madsen DH, Engelholm LH, Ingvarsen S, Hillig T, Wagenaar-Miller RA, Kjøller L, et al. Extracellular collagenases and the endocytic receptor, urokinase plasminogen activator receptor-associated protein/Endo180, cooperate in fibroblast-mediated collagen degradation. J. Biol Chem. (2007) 282:27037–45. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M701088200

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

42. Engelholm LH, Melander MC, Hald A, Persson M, Madsen DH, Jürgensen HJ, et al. Targeting a novel bone degradation pathway in primary bone cancer by inactivation of the collagen receptor uPARAP/Endo180. J Pathol. (2016) 238:120–33. doi: 10.1002/path.4661

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

43. Barton SP, Marks R. Measurement of collagen-fibre diameter in human skin. J Cutan Pathol. (1984) 11:18–26. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0560.1984.tb00345.x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

44. Rauch F, Glorieux FH. Osteogenesis imperfecta. Lancet (2004) 63:1377–85. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(04)16051-0

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

45. Forlino A, Cabral WA, Barnes AM, Marini JC. New perspectives on osteogenesis imperfecta. Nat Rev Endocrinol. (2011) 7:540–57. doi: 10.1038/nrendo.2011.81

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

46. Fratzl-Zelman N, Misof BM, Roschger P, Klaushofer K. Classification of osteogenesis imperfecta. Wien Med Wochenschr. (2015) 165:264–70. doi: 10.1007/s10354-015-0368-3

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

47. Myllyharju J. Prolyl 4-hydroxylases, key enzymes in the synthesis of collagens and regulation of the response to hypoxia, and their roles as treatment targets. Ann Med. (2008) 40:402–17. doi: 10.1080/07853890801986594

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

48. Gorres KL, Raines RT. Prolyl 4-hydroxylase. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol. (2010) 45:106–24. doi: 10.3109/10409231003627991

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

49. Marini JC, Cabral WA, Barnes AM, Chang W. Components of the collagen prolyl 3-hydroxylation complex are crucial for normal bone development. Cell Cycle (2007) 6:1675–81. doi: 10.4161/cc.6.14.4474

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

50. Fratzl-Zelman N, Morello R, Lee B, Rauch F, Glorieux FH, Misof BM, et al. CRTAP deficiency leads to abnormally high bone matrix mineralization in a murine model and in children with osteogenesis imperfecta type VII. Bone (2010) 46:820–6. doi: 10.1016/j.bone.2009.10.037

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

51. Barnes AM, Chang W, Morello R, Cabral WA, Weis M, Eyre DR, et al. Deficiency of cartilage-associated protein in recessive lethal osteogenesis imperfecta. N Engl J Med. (2006) 355:2757–64. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa063804

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

52. Cabral WA, Perdivara I, Weis M, Terajima M, Blissett AR, Chang W, et al. Abnormal type I collagen post-translational modification and crosslinking in a cyclophilin B KO mouse model of recessive osteogenesis imperfecta. PLoS Genet. (2014) 10:e1004465. doi: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004465

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

53. van Dijk FS, Nesbitt IM, Zwikstra EH, Nikkels PG, Piersma SR, Fratantoni SA, et al. PPIB mutations cause severe osteogenesis imperfecta. Am J Hum Genet. (2009) 85:521–7. doi: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2009.09.001

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

54. Marini JC, Cabral WA, Barnes A. M. Null mutations in LEPRE1 and CRTAP cause severe recessive osteogenesis imperfecta. Cell Tissue Res. (2010) 339:59–70. doi: 10.1007/s00441-009-0872-0

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text

55. Perdivara I, Yamauchi M, Tomer KB. Molecular characterization of collagen hydroxylysine O-glycosylation by mass spectrometry: current status. Aust J Chem. (2013) 66:760–9. doi: 10.1071/CH13174

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

56. Canty EG, Kadler KE. Procollagen trafficking, processing and fibrillogenesis. J Cell Sci. (2005) 118:1341–53. doi: 10.1242/jcs.01731

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

57. Duran I, Nevarez L, Sarukhanov A, Wu S, Lee K, Krejci P, et al. HSP47 and FKBP65 cooperate in the synthesis of type I procollagen. Hum Mol Genet. (2015) 24:1918–28. doi: 10.1093/hmg/ddu608

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

58. Alanay Y, Avaygan H, Camacho N, Utine GE, Boduroglu K, Aktas D, et al. Mutations in the gene encoding the RER protein FKBP65 cause autosomal-recessive osteogenesis imperfecta. Am J Hum Genet. (2010) 86:551–9. doi: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2010.02.022

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

59. Kelley BP, Malfait F, Bonafe L, Baldridge D, Homan E, Symoens S, et al. Mutations in FKBP10 cause recessive osteogenesis imperfecta and Bruck syndrome. J. Bone Miner Res. (2011) 26:666–72. doi: 10.1002/jbmr.250

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

60. Barnes AM, Cabral WA, Weis M, Makareeva E, Mertz EL, Leikin S, et al. Absence of FKBP10 in recessive type XI osteogenesis imperfecta leads to diminished collagen cross-linking and reduced collagen deposition in extracellular matrix. Hum. Mutat. (2012) 33:1589–98. doi: 10.1002/humu.22139

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

61. Kessler E, Takahara K, Biniaminov L, Brusel M, Greenspan DS. Bone morphogenetic protein-1: the type I procollagen C-proteinase. Science (1996) 271:360. doi: 10.1126/science.271.5247.360

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

62. Prockop DJ, Sieron AL, Li SW. Procollagen N-proteinase and procollagen C-proteinase. Two unusual metalloproteinases that are essential for procollagen processing probably have important roles in development and cell signaling. Matrix Biol. (1998) 16:399–408. doi: 10.1016/S0945-053X(98)90013-0

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

63. Colige A, Vandenberghe I, Thiry M, Lambert CA, Van Beeumen J, Li SW, et al. Cloning and characterization of ADAMTS-14, a novel ADAMTS displaying high homology with ADAMTS-2 and ADAMTS-3. J Biol Chem. (2002) 277:5756–66. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M105601200

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

64. Lindahl K, Barnes AM, Fratzl-Zelman N, Whyte MP, Hefferan TE, Makareeva E, et al. COL1 C-propeptide cleavage site mutations cause high bone mass osteogenesis imperfecta. Hum. Mutat. (2011) 32:598–609. doi: 10.1002/humu.21475

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

65. Hoyer-Kuhn H, Semler O, Schoenau E, Roschger P, Klaushofer K, Rauch F. Hyperosteoidosis and hypermineralization in the same bone: bone tissue analyses in a boy with a homozygous BMP1 mutation. Calcif Tissue Int. (2013) 93:565–70. doi: 10.1007/s00223-013-9799-2

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

66. Becker J, Semler O, Gilissen C, Li Y, Bolz HJ, Giunta C, et al. Exome sequencing identifies truncating mutations in human SERPINF1 in autosomal-recessive osteogenesis imperfecta. Am J Hum Genet. (2011) 88:362–71. doi: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2011.01.015

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

67. Homan EP, Rauch F, Grafe I, Lietman C, Doll JA, Dawson B, et al. Mutations in SERPINF1 cause osteogenesis imperfecta type VI. J Bone Miner Res. (2011) 26:2798–803. doi: 10.1002/jbmr.487

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

68. Rauch F, Husseini A, Roughley P, Glorieux FH, Moffatt P. Lack of circulating pigment epithelium-derived factor is a marker of osteogenesis imperfecta type VI. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. (2012) 97:E1550–6. doi: 10.1210/jc.2012-1827

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

69. Al-Jallad H, Palomo T, Roughley P, Glorieux FH, McKee MD, Moffatt P, et al. The effect of SERPINF1 in-frame mutations in osteogenesis imperfecta type VI. Bone (2015) 76:115–20. doi: 10.1016/j.bone.2015.04.008

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

70. Eriksen EF, Charles P, Melsen F, Mosekilde L, Risteli L, Risteli J. Serum markers of type I collagen formation and degradation in metabolic bone disease: correlation with bone histomorphometry. J Bone Miner Res. (1993) 8:127–32. doi: 10.1002/jbmr.5650080202

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

71. Seibel MJ. Biochemical markers of bone turnover part I: biochemistry and variability. Clin Biochem Rev. (2005) 26:97–122.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

72. Engelholm LH, Nielsen BS, Netzel-Arnett S, Solberg H, Chen XD, Lopez Garcia JM, et al. The urokinase plasminogen activator receptor-associated protein/endo180 is coexpressed with its interaction partners urokinase plasminogen activator receptor and matrix metalloprotease-13 during osteogenesis. Lab Invest. (2001) 81:1403–14. doi: 10.1038/labinvest.3780354

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

73. Abdelgawad ME, Søe K, Andersen TL, Merrild DMH, Christiansen P, Kjærsgaard-Andersen P, et al. Does collagen trigger the recruitment of osteoblasts into vacated bone resorption lacunae during bone remodeling? Bone (2014) 67:181–8. doi: 10.1016/j.bone.2014.07.012

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

74. Csiszar K. Lysyl oxidases: a novel multifunctional amine oxidase family. Prog Nucleic Acid Res Mol Biol. (2001) 70:1–32. doi: 10.1016/S0079-6603(01)70012-8

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

75. Robins SP. Fibrillogenesis and maturation of collagens, Chapter 2. In: Seibel MJ, Robins SP, Bilezikian JP, editors. Dynamics of Bone and Cartilage Metabolism, 2nd Edn. Burlington, ON: Academic Press (2006). p. 41–53.

Google Scholar

76. Perumal S, Antipova O, Orgel JPRO. Collagen fibril architecture, domain organization, and triple-helical conformation govern its proteolysis. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. (2008) 105:2824–9. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0710588105

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

77. Nurminskaya MV, Belkin AM. Cellular functions of tissue transglutaminase. Int Rev Cell Mol Biol. (2012) 294:1–97. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-394305-7.00001-X

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

78. Fortunati D, Chau D, Wang Z, Collighan R, Griffin M. Cross-linking of collagen I by tissue transglutaminase provides a promising biomaterial for promoting bone healing. Amino Acids (2014) 46:1751–61. doi: 10.1007/s00726-014-1732-0

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

79. Boskey AL. Mineralization, structure and function of bone, Chapter 12. In: Seibel MJ, Robins SP, Bilezikian JP, editors. Dynamics of Bone and Cartilage Metabolism, 2nd Edn. Burlington, ON: Academic Press (2006). p. 201–212.

Google Scholar

80. George A, Veis A. Phosphorylated proteins and control over apatite nucleation, crystal growth, and inhibition. Chem Rev. (2008) 108:4670–93. doi: 10.1021/cr0782729

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

81. Helfrich MH, Horton MA. Integrins and other adhesion molecules, Chapter 8. In: Seibel MJ, Robins SP, Bilezikian JP, editors. Dynamics of Bone and Cartilage Metabolism, 2nd Edn. Burlington, ON: Academic Press (2006). p. 129–151.

Google Scholar

82. Domon T, Osanai M, Yasuda M, Seki E, Takahashi S, Yamamoto T, et al. Mononuclear odontoclast participation in tooth resorption: the distribution of nuclei in human odontoclasts. Anat Rec. (1997) 249:449–57.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

83. Boyle WJ, Simonet WS, Lacey DL. Osteoclast differentiation and activation. Nature (2003) 423:337–42. doi: 10.1038/nature01658

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

84. Nakamura H, Sato G, Hirata A, Yamamoto T. Immunolocalization of matrix metalloproteinase-13 on bone surface under osteoclasts in rat tibia. Bone (2004) 34:48–56. doi: 10.1016/j.bone.2003.09.001

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

85. Atley LM, Mort JS, Lalumiere M, Eyre DR. Proteolysis of human bone collagen by cathepsin K: characterization of the cleavage sites generating the cross-linked N-telopeptide neoepitope. Bone (2000) 26:241–7. doi: 10.1016/S8756-3282(99)00270-7

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

86. Delaissé JM, Andersen TL, Engsig MT, Henriksen K, Troen T, Blavier L. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and cathepsin K contribute differently to osteoclastic activities. Microsc Res Tech. (2003) 61:504–13. doi: 10.1002/jemt.10374

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

87. Rawlings ND, Barrett AJ, Bateman A. MEROPS: the database of proteolytic enzymes, their substrates and inhibitors. Nucleic Acids Res. (2011) 40:D343–50. doi: 10.1093/nar/gkr987

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

88. Kafienah W, Brömme D, Buttle DJ, Croucher LJ, Hollander AP. Human cathepsin K cleaves native type I and II collagens at the N-terminal end of the triple helix. Biochem J. (1998) 331:727–32. doi: 10.1042/bj3310727

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

89. Novinec M, Lenarcic B. Cathepsin K: a unique collagenolytic cysteine peptidase. Biol Chem. (2013) 394:1163–79. doi: 10.1515/hsz-2013-0134

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

90. Aguda AH, Panwar P, Du X, Nguyen NT, Brayer GD, Brömme D. Structural basis of collagen fiber degradation by cathepsin K. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. (2014) 111:17474–9. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1414126111

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

91. Bossard MJ, Tomaszek TA, Thompson SK, Amegadzie BY, Hanning CR, Jones C, et al. Proteolytic activity of human osteoclast cathepsin K. Expression, purification, activation, and substrate identification. J Biol Chem. (1996) 271:12517–24. doi: 10.1074/jbc.271.21.12517

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

92. Li Z, Kienetz M, Cherney MM, James MNG, Brömme D. The crystal and molecular structures of a cathepsin K: chondroitin sulfate complex. J Mol Biol. (2008) 383:78–91. doi: 10.1016/j.jmb.2008.07.038

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

93. Chapurlat RD. Odanacatib for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Expert Opin Pharmacother. (2014) 15:97–102. doi: 10.1517/14656566.2014.853038

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

94. Nallaseth FS, Lecaille F, Li Z, Brömme D. The role of basic amino acid surface clusters on the collagenase activity of cathepsin K. Biochemistry (2013) 52:7742–52. doi: 10.1021/bi401051j

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

95. Sharma V, Panwar P, O'Donoghue AJ, Cui H, Guido RV, Craik CS, et al. Structural requirements for the collagenase and elastase activity of cathepsin K and its selective inhibition by an exosite inhibitor. Biochem J. (2015) 465:163–73. doi: 10.1042/BJ20140809

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

96. Panwar P, Du X, Sharma V, Lamour G, Castro M, Li H, et al. Effects of cysteine proteases on the structural and mechanical properties of collagen fibers. J Biol Chem. (2013) 288:5940–50. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M112.419689

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

97. Johnson MR, Polymeropoulos MH, Vos HL, Ortiz de Luna RI, Francomano CA. A nonsense mutation in the cathepsin K gene observed in a family with pycnodysostosis. Genome Res. (1996) 6:1050–5. doi: 10.1101/gr.6.11.1050

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

98. Hou WS, Brömme D, Zhao Y, Mehler E, Dushey C, Weinstein H, et al. Characterization of novel cathepsin K mutations in the pro and mature polypeptide regions causing pycnodysostosis. J Clin Invest. (1999) 103:731–8. doi: 10.1172/JCI653

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

99. Saftig P, Hunziker E, Wehmeyer O, Jones S, Boyde A, Rommerskirch W, et al. Impaired osteoclastic bone resorption leads to osteopetrosis in cathepsin-K-deficient mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. (1998) 95:13453–8. doi: 10.1073/pnas.95.23.13453

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

100. Saftig P, Hunziker E, Everts V, Jones S, Boyde A, Wehmeyer O, et al. Functions of cathepsin K in bone resorption: Lessons from cathepsin K deficient mice. In: Langner J, Ansorge S, editors. Cellular Peptidases in Immune Functions and Diseases 2, New York, Boston, Dordrecht, London, Moscow: Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers (2000).

101. Kiviranta R, Morko J, Alatalo SL, NicAmhlaoibh R, Risteli J, Laitala-Leinonen T, et al. Impaired bone resorption in cathepsin K-deficient mice is partially compensated for by enhanced osteoclastogenesis and increased expression of other proteases via an increased RANKL/OPG ratio. Bone (2004) 36:159–72. doi: 10.1016/j.bone.2004.09.020

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

102. Bühling F, Röcken C, Brasch F, Hartig R, Yasuda Y, Saftig P, et al. Pivotal role of cathepsin K in lung fibrosis. Am J Pathol. (2004) 164:2203–16. doi: 10.1016/S0002-9440(10)63777-7

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

103. Zhang D, Leung N, Weber E, Saftig P, Brömme D. The effect of cathepsin K deficiency on airway development and TGF-b1 degradation. Respir Res. (2011) 12:72. doi: 10.1186/1465-9921-12-72

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

104. Dauth S, Sîrbulescu RF, Jordans S, Rehders M, Avena L, Oswald J, et al. Cathepsin K deficiency in mice induces structural and metabolic changes in the central nervous system that are associated with learning and memory deficits. BMC Neurosci. (2011) 12:74. doi: 10.1186/1471-2202-12-74

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

105. Chiusaroli R, Maier A, Knight MC, Byrne M, Calvi LM, Baron R, et al. Collagenase cleavage of type I collagen is essential for both basal and parathyroid hormone (PTH)/PTH-related peptide receptor-induced osteoclast activation and has differential effects on discrete bone compartments. Endocrinology (2003) 144:4106–16. doi: 10.1210/en.2003-0254

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

106. Fanjul-Fernández M, Folgueras AR, Cabrera S, López-Otín C. Matrix metalloproteinases: evolution, gene regulation and functional analysis in mouse models. Biochim Biophys Acta (2010) 1803:3–19. doi: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2009.07.004

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

107. Krane SM, Inada M. Matrix metalloproteinases and bone. Bone (2008) 43:7–18. doi: 10.1016/j.bone.2008.03.020

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

108. Hirose T, Patterson C, Pourmotabbed T, Mainardi CL, Hasty KA. Structure-function relationship of human neutrophil collagenase: identification of regions responsible for substrate specificity and general proteinase activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. (1993) 90:2569–73. doi: 10.1073/pnas.90.7.2569

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

109. Chung L, Shimokawa KI, Dinakarpandian D, Grams F, Fields GB, Nagase H. Identification of the 183RWTNNFREY191Region as a critical segment of matrix metalloproteinase 1 for the expression of collagenolytic activity. J Biol Chem. (2000) 275:29610–7. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M004039200

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

110. Chung L, Dinakarpandian D, Yoshida N, Lauer-Fields JL, Fields GB, Visse R, et al. Collagenase unwinds triple-helical collagen prior to peptide bond hydrolysis. EMBO J. (2004) 23:3020–30. doi: 10.1038/sj.emboj.7600318

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

111. Sarkar SK, Marmer B, Goldberg G, Neuman KC. Single-molecule tracking of collagenase on native type I collagen fibrils reveals degradation mechanism. Curr Biol. (2012) 22:1047–56. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2012.04.012

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

112. Vincenti MP, Brinckerhoff CE. Transcriptional regulation of collagenase (MMP-1, MMP-13) genes in arthritis: integration of complex signaling pathways for the recruitment of gene-specific transcription factors. Arthritis Res. (2002) 4:157–64. doi: 10.1186/ar401

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

113. Liu H, Kato Y, Erzinger SA, Kiriakova GM, Qian Y, Palmieri D, et al. The role of MMP-1 in breast cancer growth and metastasis to the brain in a xenograft model. BMC Cancer (2012) 12:583. doi: 10.1186/1471-2407-12-583

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

114. Hayami T, Kapila YL, Kapila S. MMP-1 (collagenase-1) and MMP-13 (collagenase-3) differentially regulate markers of osteoblastic differentiation in osteogenic cells. Matrix Biol. (2008) 27:682–92. doi: 10.1016/j.matbio.2008.07.005

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

115. Sasaki K, Takagi M, Konttinen YT, Sasaki A, Tamaki Y, Ogino T, et al. Upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and its activator MMP-3 of human osteoblast by uniaxial cyclic stimulation. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater. (2007) 80B:491–8. doi: 10.1002/jbm.b.30622

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

116. Neidhart M, Baraliakos X, Seemayer C, Zelder C, Gay RE, Michel BA, et al. Expression of cathepsin K and matrix metalloproteinase 1 indicate persistent osteodestructive activity in long-standing ankylosing spondylitis. Ann Rheum Dis. (2009) 68:1334–9. doi: 10.1136/ard.2008.092494

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

117. Kaspiris A, Khaldi L, Grivas TB, Vasiliadis E, Kouvaras I, Dagkas S, et al. Subchondral cyst development and MMP-1 expression during progression of osteoarthritis: an immunohistochemical study. Orthop Traumatol Surg Res. (2013) 99:523–9. doi: 10.1016/j.otsr.2013.03.019

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

118. Kennedy AM, Inada M, Krane SM, Christie PT, Harding B, López-Otín C, et al. MMP13 mutation causes spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia, Missouri type (SEMDMO). J Clin Invest. (2005) 115:2832–42. doi: 10.1172/JCI22900

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

119. Lausch E, Keppler R, Hilbert K, Cormier-Daire V, Nikkel S, Nishimura G, et al. Mutations in MMP9 and MMP13 determine the mode of inheritance and the clinical spectrum of metaphyseal anadysplasia. Am J Hum Genet. (2009) 85:168–78. doi: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2009.06.014

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

120. Takaishi H, Kimura T, Dalal S, Okada Y, D'Armiento J. Joint diseases and matrix metalloproteinases: a role for MMP-13. Curr Pharm Biotechnol. (2008) 9:47–54. doi: 10.2174/138920108783497659

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

121. Little CB, Barai A, Burkhardt D, Smith SM, Fosang AJ, Werb Z, et al. Matrix metalloproteinase 13–deficient mice are resistant to osteoarthritic cartilage erosion but not chondrocyte hypertrophy or osteophyte development. Arthritis Rheumat. (2009) 60:3723–33. doi: 10.1002/art.25002

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

122. Neuhold LA, Killar L, Zhao W, Sung MLA, Warner L, Kulik J, et al. Postnatal expression in hyaline cartilage of constitutively active human collagenase-3 (MMP-13) induces osteoarthritis in mice. J Clin Invest. (2001) 107:35–44. doi: 10.1172/JCI10564

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

123. Stickens D, Behonick DJ, Ortega N, Heyer B, Hartenstein B, Yu Y, et al. Altered endochondral bone development in matrix metalloproteinase 13-deficient mice. Development (2004) 131:5883–95. doi: 10.1242/dev.01461

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

124. Van den Steen PE, Dubois B, Nelissen I, Rudd PM, Dwek RA, Opdenakker G. Biochemistry and molecular biology of gelatinase B or matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol. (2002) 37:375–536. doi: 10.1080/10409230290771546

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

125. Okada Y, Naka K, Kawamura K, Matsumoto T, Nakanishi I, Fujimoto N, et al. Localization of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (92-kilodalton gelatinase/type IV collagenase = gelatinase B) in osteoclasts: implications for bone resorption. Lab Invest. (1995) 72:311–322.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

126. Vu TH, Shipley JM, Bergers G, Berger JE, Helms JA, Hanahan D, et al. MMP-9/gelatinase B is a key regulator of growth plate angiogenesis and apoptosis of hypertrophic chondrocytes. Cell (1998) 93:411–22. doi: 10.1016/S0092-8674(00)81169-1

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

127. Engsig MT, Chen QJ, Vu TH, Pedersen AC, Therkidsen B, Lund LR, et al. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 and vascular endothelial growth factor are essential for osteoclast recruitment into developing long bones. J. Cell Biol. (2000) 151:879–90. doi: 10.1083/jcb.151.4.879

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

128. Li Z, Hou WS, Escalante-Torres CR, Gelb BD, Bromme D. Collagenase activity of cathepsin K depends on complex formation with chondroitin sulfate. J. Biol Chem. (2002) 277:28669–76. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M204004200

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

129. Engelholm LH, Ingvarsen S, Jurgensen HJ, Hillig T, Madsen DH, Nielsen BS, et al. The collagen receptor uPARAP/Endo180. Front Biosci. (2009) 14:2103–14. doi: 10.2741/3365

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

130. Eyre D. New biomarkers of bone resorption. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. (1992) 74:470A–C. doi: 10.1210/jcem.74.3.1740477

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Keywords: bone, cathepsin K, collagen type I, discoidin domain receptors, integrins, leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor complex, matrix metalloproteinases, uPARAP/Endo180

Citation: Boraschi-Diaz I, Wang J, Mort JS and Komarova SV (2017) Collagen Type I as a Ligand for Receptor-Mediated Signaling. Front. Phys. 5:12. doi: 10.3389/fphy.2017.00012

Received: 19 December 2016; Accepted: 25 April 2017;
Published: 16 May 2017.

Edited by:

Ewald Moser, Medical University of Vienna, Austria

Reviewed by:

Fei Geng, McMaster University, Canada
Vincenza Ferraro, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), France

Copyright © 2017 Boraschi-Diaz, Wang, Mort and Komarova. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Svetlana V. Komarova, svetlana.komarova@mcgill.ca

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.