Massage & Bodywork Licensing Practice Examination (MBLEx)

Collagen plays a crucial role in the formation of scar tissue. During the healing process, fibroblasts produce collagen fibers that help fill in the wound and support the surrounding tissue. These collagen fibers are vital because they provide structural strength and integrity to the new tissue being formed. Over time, the collagen undergoes remodeling, which can make the scar stronger and more resilient.

Keratin is primarily a protein found in the skin, hair, and nails, and while it is important for maintaining skin health and protection, it is not directly involved in scar tissue formation. Elastin is responsible for the elasticity of tissues, allowing skin and other structures to stretch and return to their original shape, but it does not contribute to the structural integrity of scar tissue in the same way collagen does. Plasma, the liquid component of blood, plays a role in transporting nutrients and waste but is not directly involved in the formation of scar tissue itself. Therefore, collagen is the essential substance for effective scar tissue development and repair.