American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

Type 2 collagen is primarily found in cartilage, which is a key component of the skeletal system providing structure and support to joints. This type of collagen is essential for maintaining the integrity and elasticity of cartilage, making it critical for the proper function of joints during movement and weight-bearing activities.

In cartilage, Type 2 collagen forms thin fibrils that create a network, allowing for the retention of water and the ability to withstand compressive forces. This unique structure is vital for the shock-absorbing properties of cartilage, especially in areas such as the articular surfaces of joints.

Other tissues mentioned, such as bone, primarily contain Type 1 collagen, which provides strength and structural support in a different way. Blood vessels have a mix of collagen types, but they do not predominantly feature Type 2 collagen. Muscle tissue does not contain a significant amount of collagen in its functional components, focusing instead on muscle fibers for contraction. This distinction highlights the unique role of Type 2 collagen in cartilage compared to other types of tissues.