Synthesis and solubility of collagen in rats during recovery after high-dose cyclophosphamide administration

The metabolism of collagen and mineral was studied during a nine-day postmedicational period in young, male rats receiving high-dose intraperitoneal cyclophosphamide treatment every second day for 12 days. Two days after ending medication the white blood cell counts (WBC) were reduced by about 70%. Both synthesis and solubility of collagen were suppressed by the present medication 2 days after termination of treatment. This suppression continued throughout the 9-day postmedicational period in bones, whereas in connective tissue of porous, ceramic implants both total collagen and the amount of salt soluble collagen regained normal values 9 days after cessation of treatment. Increased mineralization was found 2 days after ending medication and this high degree of mineralization persisted during the postmedicational period studied. Serum albumin levels were reduced and no increases were detected during the postmedicational period. The suggestion is made that the general protein synthesis is affected by high-dose cyclophosphamide administration.