Studies on the effect of (+)catechin on connective tissue in the guinea pig and in organ culture.

Decreased biosynthesis of (14C) hydroxyproline in skin collagen was observed after injection of the flavonoid (+)catechin into guinea pigs. No alteration in already synthesized collagens was noted, as measured by the content of hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine. No alteration in the content of skin acid glycosaminoglycans was observed. The variable binding of (+)catechin to different tissues was demonstrated. No special sensitivity to the drug of any collagen type was found.