Collagenolytic Activity Is Suppressed in Organ-Cultured Human Skin Exposed to a Gadolinium-Based MRI Contrast Agent

Abstract

Gadolinium-based MRI contrast agent exposure has recently been linked to a fibrotic skin condition in patients with impaired kidney function. The mechanism is unknown. The increase in TIMP-1 production and concomitant reduction in collagenolytic activity demonstrated here could result in decreased collagen turnover and increased deposition of collagen in lesional skin.