Collagen synthesis in granulation tissue formed in rats treated with female sex hormones.

In previous studies, we have shown that female sex hormones given in dosages corresponding to plasma levels in the last trimester of pregnancy retard collagen accumulation in early phases of experimental granulation tissue formation. Results of incorporation experiments using radioactive proline reported in this article indicate that this hormone treatment reduces general protein synthesis in granulation tissue and, even more markedly, the synthesis of collagen. Since collagen accumulation into granulomas is normal in the later phases of healing, it is suggested that hormone treatment not only decreases synthesis of collagen but also decreases breakdown of collagen. Hormone treatment did not affect the solubility of labeled collagen. No differences were observed in the synthesis of different collagen types. Under conditions when active collagen and protein synthesis occurs in the uterus and fetus, corresponding synthesis in other tissues is, thus, decreased. This may serve as an energy and protein saving function during pregnancy. The results may have applications for treatment of extensive scar formation.