Hepatic collagen synthesis in a rat model of cirrhosis, and its modification by colchicine.

Carbon tetrachloride inhalation in phenobarbitone treated rats caused a rapid rise in hepatic prolyl hydroxylase activity which was followed by an increase in hepatic collagen and free proline concentrations. Colchicine in a dose of 5 micrograms/day largely prevented the increase in hepatic collagen. This effect was not mediated by impairment of prolyl hydroxylase activity. Colchicine is of potential therapeutic value in preventing the progression of chronic liver disease to cirrhosis.