[Reaction of cells of subcutaneous connective tissue to the activation and blockade of the peptidergic system].

Changes in the quantitative composition of subcutaneous connective tissue cells were examined after activation and blockade of the peripheral peptidergic system with capsaicin. The activating dose (5 mg/kg) of the agent was found to increase the quantity of mast cells in the subcutaneous connective tissue. Its toxic dose (200 mg/kg) elevated the histiocytic and fibroblastic index while the number of mast cells reduced. The same reaction was seen in surgically impaired tissue innervation. It is concluded that peptidergic capsaicin-sensitive neurons play a role in the development of neurogenic dystrophy and this process involves connective tissue cell elements.