[Age-related thermodynamic and mechanical properties of the rat collagen].

The age peculiarities of cross-linking degree, thermodynamic and mechanic properties of rat tail tendon collagen fibres were investigated. It is shown that during the period from 1 to 3 months the melting temperature decreases and the enthalpy difference increases, from 3 to 24 months the melting temperature increases and the enthalpy difference decreases. The strength of fibres increases during the whole life.

[Comparative studys on ages-related changes in collagen structures of Achilles and tail tendons in rats].

The rate and degree of age changes in collagen structures of the Achilles and tail tendons were studied in 0.5, 1, 3, 12 and 24 month old rats. The hydration degree and imino acid content were determined in the tendon collagen fibres.