Glycosaminoglycans of normal and hypertrophic human scar.

The glycosaminoglycan (GAG) contents of hypertrophic scars, normal scars, and human skin from cadavers of matched ages were compared. Cellulose acetate electrophoresis, chondroitinase digestions, and reaction product and infrared analyses were used to characterize the component GAGs. DEAE-cellulose chromatography was used to separate hyaluronic acid (HA) and sulfated GAGs. Chondroitinase analysis was improved under these conditions. HA was determined enzymatically. Results showed an elevation of HA in hypertrophic scar. Dermatan sulfate was the major GAG in both scars and a slightly greater quantity was observed in the hypertrophic scar. Small amounts of chondroitin 4-sulfate and chondroitin 6-sulfate disaccharide constituents were also detected by the chondroitinase assay method and these were also elevated in hypertrophic scar. These results suggest that the GAGs of hypertrophic scar differ from normal scar and normal skin.