A new approach to assessing collagen turnover by using a micro-assay. A highly efficient and rapid turnover of collagen in rat periodontal tissues

Measurement of 3Hproline incorporation into newly synthesized and mature collagen in connective tissues was used to compare rates and efficiency of collagen turnover. The approach minimizes label-recycling problems. By using a micro-assay to determine hydroxyproline specific radioactivities, a highly efficient and rapid collagen turnover in rat periodontal tissues was demonstrated.