Collagen biosynthesis and secretion is essential for the maintenance of healthy skin and is a crucial step in normal wound healing. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells in that they produce most of the ATP and we have studied their role in wounds due to the increased energy demands in wound healing. Specifically, we have examined the role of mitochondrial protein X which function in wound healing is previously unknown. Protein X activity and expression correlate with collagen levels and granulation tissue formation in skin biopsies of artificial wounds from healthy volunteers and chronic venous ulcer patients, as well as in porcine wound healing. The mRNA and protein isolated from protein X knock-down dermal fibroblasts showed increase in collagen expression. However, the collagen secretion profile showed a decrease in collagen secretion with knock-down of protein X. The above findings were confirmed by experiments in a protein X knockout mouse where we observed a reduction in collagen fibril diameter and cross section area using transmission electron microscopy, thus implicating protein X as a novel regulator of collagen secretion and fibril formation. Our findings suggest a role for protein X in collagen synthesis and will help in understanding intracellular collagen trafficking and how it affects wound healing.

LB069 - Mitochondrial regulation of wound healing and collagen

The scientific meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) is held yearly, usually in September. With an international attendance of more than 1000 skin scientists from around the globe, the four-day event includes short oral presentations from peer-reviewed abstracts, keynote lectures from international experts, sponsored symposia, satellite programs, educational events as well as an important focus on posters, networking and building collaborations amongst scientists. For more information about this year’s meeting visit our website.