Effect of transforming growth factors-β on collagen type VI expression in human dermal fibroblasts

Abstract

Steady-state mRNA levels and protein synthesis of collagen type VI were determined after stimulation of human dermal fibroblasts with transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ). While there was a 227% increase in the α3(VI) subunit mRNA at maximal TGF-β concentration, α1(VI) and α2(VI) subunit mRNA levels remained uhchanged. Concomitantly collapen type VI immuno-reactive material increased up to 172% of controls in cell culture medium and cell layer extracts, Regulation of α3(VI) gene expression is therefore critical for the control of collagen type VI synthesis and determines the deposition or collagen type VI heterotrimeric molecules.