MIT Chemists Uncover Secret to Dinosaur Collagen's Longevity

New study reveals atomic-level interactions that protect collagen from water-induced breakdown for millions of years.

Collagen's unique triple helix structure prevents water molecules from breaking peptide bonds.
The study explains how collagen in fossils up to 195 million years old remains intact.
Researchers identified electron-sharing interactions that shield collagen's peptide bonds.
This discovery challenges previous theories about protein preservation in ancient fossils.
The findings could inform the design of long-lasting synthetic materials.