Effect of protein malnutrition on the metabolism of uteral collagen in the rat

Protein malnutrition in the rat resulted in a reduction in the syntehsis of collagen as determined by changes in the specific and total radioactivity incorporated following a single injection of ( 3 H)-proline. It was also accompanied by a retardation in the maturation of soluble to insoluble collagen. In addition, protein deficiency was accompanied by decreased rates of catabolism of both soluble and insoluble collagen.