Hydroperoxide formation in model collagens and collagen type I

Protein hydroperoxides represent a relatively new concept in understanding biological oxidation chemistry. Here, we show with post-column-chemiluminescence that this sometimes remarkably stable and yet reactive species can be formed in collagen models and collagen type I when submitted to oxidative stress as exemplified by the Fenton reaction. These findings are supported by mass spectrometry and iodometry. Using (Proline-hydroxyproline-glycine)(10) (POG)(10), those hydroperoxides are stable for hours at room temperature and can give rise to free radicals in the presence of ferrous sulphate, as evidenced by EPR spin trapping with DMPO. Possible implications for biological systems are discussed with emphasis on collagen in the extracellular matrix in skin as a major type of connective tissue.