INHIBITION OF PROCOLLAGEN CELL-FREE SYNTHESIS BY AMINO-TERMINAL EXTENSION PEPTIDES

Peptides prepared from the amino termini of pro α 1(I) and pro α1(III) collagen chains inhibit the production of pro α 1(I) and pro α2 by rat calvaria RNA in a reticulocyte cell-free system. The synthesis of other proteins was not altered, suggesting a specific effect on collagen production. Various peptides from the helical region of the α 1(I) chain did not alter translation. These studies, taken together with earlier studies showing inhibition of collagen synthesis by cells in culture receiving the amino-terminal peptides, are consistent with a regulatory function in collagen synthesis for the amino-terminal peptides from procollagen. © 1979, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.