Detection of collagenase-activity in RA synovial fluids using soluble 14C-labelled collagen

14 RA synovial fluids and 7 non-RA synovial fluids were investigated as to their collagenase-activity using 14C-labelled type I human collagen in soluble form. Breakdown products were fractionated by gel filtration on Sephadex G 200 superfine. Cleavage of native and denatured labelled collagen was compared. 11 RA synovial fluids showed significant collagenase activity as manifested by degradation of native collagen, while only one synovial fluid of the control group displayed a significant collagenolytic activity. Results were compared with cleavage of reconstituted collagen fibrils. Influence of EDTA and KSCN on collagen degradation was also studied: EDTA completely blocked degradation of native or denatured collagen, while KSCN caused an increase of collagenolytic activity in two cases.