Collagenase is an enzyme that breaks down collagen, a protein that provides structure and strength to various tissues in the body, including skin, tendons, and cartilage. It is produced by certain bacteria and is also found in some animal tissues. Collagenase is used in medical treatments to help remove dead or damaged tissue, particularly in chronic wounds and burns. In addition to its medical applications, collagenase is utilized in research and biotechnology. It aids in the isolation of cells from tissues by digesting collagen, making it easier to study cellular functions and develop new therapies.