Collagenase is a protease that cleaves the Pro-X-Glyc-Pro sequence (commonly found in collagen) The bond between the neutral amino acid (X) and glycine. Among proteases, only collagenase is able to degrade the triple-helical natural collagen fibers commonly found in connective tissues such as skin, tendons, blood vessels and bones. Collagenase depolymerization is suitable for cultures of human tumors, mouse kidneys, adult and fetal brains, and many other tissues, including epithelial cells. Collagenase is relatively mild, has good dissociation capabilities under physiological temperature and pH conditions, and does not require mechanical stirring or special equipment.

Gibco™ Type IV collagenase is isolated from Clostridium histolytica and is packaged as a freeze-dried, non-sterile powder for research purposes such as cell or tissue dissociation and organ perfusion. We guarantee that the activity of Gibco™ Collagenase Type IV is greater than 160 units/mg. Gibco™ Collagenase Type IV has low trypsin activity compared to other collagenase preparations, making it ideal for digesting the islet cells of the pancreas.