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The strength of a calcified tissue depends in part on the molecular structure and organization of its constituent mineral crystals in their organic matrixHigh-voltage electron-microscopic tomographic (3D) studies of the ultrastructural interaction between mineral and organic matrix in a variety of calcified tissues reveal different crystal structural and organizational features in association with their respective organic matrices. In brittle or weak pathologic or ectopic calcifications, including examples of osteogenesis imperfecta, calciphylaxis, calcergy, and dermatomyositis, hydroxyapatite crystals occur in various sizes and shapes and are oriented and aligned with respect to collagen in a manner which is distinct from that found in normal calcified tissues. A model of collagen-mineral interaction is proposed which may account for the observed crystal structures and organization. The results indicate that the ultimate strength, support, and other mechanical properties provided by a calcified tissue are dependent in part upon the molecular structure and arrangement of its constituent mineral crystals within their organic matrix.
Document ID
20050000197
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Landis, W. J.
(Harvard Medical School Boston, MA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 22, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1995
Publication Information
Publication: Bone
Volume: 16
Issue: 5
ISSN: 8756-3282
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: AR 34078
CONTRACT_GRANT: AR 41452
CONTRACT_GRANT: AR 34081
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
Non-NASA Center
NASA Discipline Musculoskeletal

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