The role of collagen types I and II in the regeneration of temporomandibular joint and bone tissues - from molecular mechanisms to modern treatment protocols: Literature review.

OBJECTIVE: Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze current data on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the development of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The article explores the potential of collagen therapy as a pathogenetically substantiated approach to the comprehensive treatment of this disease. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: A systematic review of the scientific literature over the past 20 years was conducted, indexed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, RCSB Protein Data Bank until March 2026. A comprehensive literature search identified 14,865 publications. Following a sequential analysis of titles, abstracts, and full texts based on predefined inclusion criteria (original experimental and clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses that revealed the molecular and cellular mechanisms of TMJ osteoarthritis, the therapeutic impact of types I and II collagen on joint and bone regeneration) and exclusion criteria (irrelevant papers, duplicates, TMJ rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritis, systemic vasculitis). Ultimately, 37 primary sources were selected for the final review. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: The authors summarized current data on the pathogenetic mechanisms of TMJ osteoarthritis, analyzed data on the use of collagen in the treatment of TMJ. The biological role of collagen types I and II as key structural components of fibrocartilage and subchondral bone is examined. Special attention is given to the feasibility of using injectable tropocolagen to stimulate reparative processes in the TMJ.