Reaction of cells of subcutaneous connective tissue to the activation and blockade of the peptidergic system

Changes in the quantitative composition of subcutaneous connective tissue cells were examined after activation and blockade of the peripheral peptidergic system with capsaicin. The activating dose (5 mg/kg) of the agent was found to increase the quantity of mast cells in the subcutaneous connective tissue. Its toxic dose (200 mg/kg) elevated the histiocytic and fibroblastic index while the number of mast cells reduced. The same reaction was seen in surgically impaired tissue innervation. It is concluded that peptidergic capsaicin-sensitive neurons play a role in the development of neurogenic dystrophy and this process involves connective tissue cell elements.