Computational studies on the factors influencing stabilities of collagen-like peptides

Abstract

In this study, thermodynamic integration and molecular dynamics methods were used to elucidate the factors affecting stabilities of collagen-like peptides. We proposed to investigate three specific aspects: (1) the stabilizing effect of hydroxyproline (Hyp), (2) the destabilizing effect of replacing Gly, and (3) the role of water mediated hydrogen bonds. A better understanding of the origins of the stabilities of collagens will help in the design of new biomaterials and the treatment of collagen-related diseases.