Collagen and Hexosamine Changes in Subcutaneous Granuloma Irradiated Locally with a Co 60 Source. ∗

Summary

Radioactive capsules containing 1 mC of Co⁶⁰ when imbedded in subcutaneous induced granulomas, significantly decreased the amount of collagen present. This decrease is due mainly to a change in the rate of synthesis, as judged by the considerable drop in the amount of soluble collagen precursors present in the irradiated granulomas. Hexosamine concentration in developing granuloma was not significantly affected by irradiation. The necrotic skin above the granulation tissue in the irradiated animals showed an increase in total collagen, presumably of a relative nature due to a depletion of soluble tissue constituents. The rate of synthesis at this site was decreased as judged by a drop in soluble collagen precursors extractable by isotonic NaCl solution.