[Biosynthesis of collagen and mode of action of D-penicillamine (author's transl)].

The biosynthesis and metabolism of collagen are complex processes and are regulated by different enzyme systems. In theory these processes can be influenced at a number of different stages. The therapeutic prevention of excessive collagen and fibril synthesis is a desirable aim, although there is a lack of substances suitable for this purpose. One substance employed is D-penicillamine (D-PA), which blocks aldehyde condensation, inhibits the cross-linking of the peptide chains and the formation of collagen fibrils. Other characteristics of D-PA which are of therapeutic interest are chelate formation with heavy metals and the depolymerizing action on macroglobulins. D-PA may possibly by of some value in the chemotherapy of certain tumours and for sensitizing tumour cells to irradiation. It remains to be investigated whether D-PA or similar substances could be of therapeutic value in arteriosclerosis, in which an increased deposition of collagen in the basal membranes is the fundamental process. The successful therapeutic use of D-PA in rheumatoid arthritis and chronic active cirrhoses of the liver justifies the hope that this substance may favourably influence disorders of collagen metabolism.