[Macrophage-fibroblast interaction and its possible role in regulating collagen metabolism during wound healing]

The role of macrophages in the resorption of denatured collagen in the wound tissue was demonstrated by transmission and scanning electron microscopy investigation. Tight cell contacts between the macrophages and fibroblasts in the granulation tissue preceded active collagen synthesis and fibrillogenesis. A hypothesis was suggested according to which these contacts played an important role in the transfer of specific signals for the initiation of collagen biosynthesis; collagen decomposition products were considered as the actual signals, thus connecting the collagen catabolism and biosynthesis. Such a feed-back mechanism probably served as an integral part of the general hemostasis regulating the growth of connective tissue.