During remodeling, which change increases tissue strength?

During remodeling, which change increases tissue strength?

• A. Type III collagen is replaced by Type I collagen
• B. Type I collagen is replaced by Type III collagen
• C. Collagen is completely eliminated and not replaced
• D. Collagen remains unchanged

Answer: (A)

During remodeling, tissue strength increases as the collagen matrix matures. Early in healing the scaffold is laid down mainly with Type III collagen, which is relatively thin and weaker. Over time, this Type III is replaced by Type I collagen, which forms thicker, cross-linked fibers that align with the direction of tensile load. This maturation and realignment boost the tissue’s tensile strength, bringing it closer to its normal strength. So, the change that increases tissue strength is replacing Type III collagen with Type I collagen. If Type I were replaced by Type III, or collagen were eliminated or left unchanged, strength would not improve.

During remodeling, tissue strength increases as the collagen matrix matures. Early in healing the scaffold is laid down mainly with Type III collagen, which is relatively thin and weaker. Over time, this Type III is replaced by Type I collagen, which forms thicker, cross-linked fibers that align with the direction of tensile load. This maturation and realignment boost the tissue’s tensile strength, bringing it closer to its normal strength. So, the change that increases tissue strength is replacing Type III collagen with Type I collagen. If Type I were replaced by Type III, or collagen were eliminated or left unchanged, strength would not improve.