What is primarily found in the structure of ligaments?

Ligaments are primarily composed of collagen, which is a protein that provides tensile strength and stability to the joints. The high concentration of collagen fibers in ligaments allows them to withstand stretching and provide support by connecting bones to other bones. This structural composition is essential for maintaining the stability of joints during movement and preventing injuries.

While some ligaments may contain elastic fibers, which provide a certain degree of flexibility, collagen remains the predominant component that defines their function and structural integrity. Other tissues such as fibrocartilage and adipose tissue serve different roles in the body and are not the primary components of ligaments. Fibrocartilage, for example, is found in structures like intervertebral discs and the menisci, while adipose tissue is primarily involved in energy storage and insulation, not in the structural support of ligaments.