The structural basis of cell-mediated immunological reactions of collagen. Reactivity of separated -chains of calf and rat collagen in cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity reactions.

Denatured calf and rat skin collagen and α1- and α2-chains from these collagens were tested for their capacity to sensitize guinea-pigs for the cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity reaction and to elicit this reaction in sensitized animals. Alpha-chains from neutral salt extracted and from urea extracted collagen were also compared. All preparations were fully active as sensitizers as well as elicitors of the skin reaction. In spite of extensive cross-reactions, significant differences between α1- and α2-chains of a given species as well as between corresponding chains of different species could be detected. Differences between chains from neutral salt extracted collagen and from urea extracted collagen were also revealed.