Which statement correctly identifies the role of collagen in connective tissue?

Which statement correctly identifies the role of collagen in connective tissue?

• A. Provides a structural framework in connective tissue
• B. Carries oxygen in blood
• C. Stores calcium
• D. Transmits nerve signals

Answer: (A)

Collagen serves as the main structural protein in the connective tissue's extracellular matrix, forming strong fibrils that provide tensile strength and shape. This framework helps tissues like skin, bone, tendons, and ligaments resist pulling forces and maintain integrity under stress. The other ideas describe different biological roles: carrying oxygen in blood is done by hemoglobin in red blood cells; storing calcium is a mineral component of bone; transmitting nerve signals involves neural tissue and signaling pathways. Because collagen’s primary job is to create that sturdy scaffold in connective tissues, it’s the best description of its role.

Collagen serves as the main structural protein in the connective tissue's extracellular matrix, forming strong fibrils that provide tensile strength and shape. This framework helps tissues like skin, bone, tendons, and ligaments resist pulling forces and maintain integrity under stress. The other ideas describe different biological roles: carrying oxygen in blood is done by hemoglobin in red blood cells; storing calcium is a mineral component of bone; transmitting nerve signals involves neural tissue and signaling pathways. Because collagen’s primary job is to create that sturdy scaffold in connective tissues, it’s the best description of its role.