Labeling of Collagen in Human Musculoskeletal Connective Tissues with Stable Isotope Tracers and Preparation of Amino Acids for Mass Spectrometry.

Collagen-rich musculoskeletal connective tissues are in constant turnover, reflecting a balance between synthesis and breakdown, which is crucial for tissue remodeling and regeneration. Stable isotopes, particularly 15N-proline and 2H2O, offer a precise method for tracing collagen turnover. This chapter details the use of these isotopes to study collagen dynamics in response to various interventions. The protocol includes the administration of stable isotope tracers, tissue sampling, collagen isolation, and derivatization of amino acids for analysis by mass spectrometry.