ISSN:
0003-276X
Keywords:
Life and Medical Sciences
;
Cell & Developmental Biology
Source:
Wiley InterScience Backfile Collection 1832-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
The application of high resolution electron microscopy, computer image processing, and image simulation techniques to the investigation of synthetic nonstoichiometric apatites has provided new details of apatite crystal growth mechanisms. Under certain precipitation conditions, calcium-deficient apatites with distinct octacalcium phosphate (OCP)-apatite intergrowths have been observed. Apatite crystals with unit-cell thick overgrowths of OCP on their surfaces confirmed the stepwise hydrolysis crystal growth mechanism initially proposed by Brown (Nature 196:1048-1050). However, many crystals also contained a central two-dimensional OCP inclusion one to two unit cells thick, embedded in an apatite matrix. Similar planar defects have been observed in dental enamel, dentin, and bone apatite crystals. We have developed a modified version of Brown's stepwise OCP hydrolysis apatite crystal growth mechanism to explain the formation of crystals with OCP central planar defects. The mechanism involves the nucleation of an OCP seed that grows until it reaches a critical size, rh, before OCP hydrolysis occurs. Apatite subsequently grows epitaxially on the OCP seed, thereby embedding it in the center of an apatite crystal. Apatite growth is facilitated by partial screw dislocations emanating from the planar defect.
Additional Material:
8 Ill.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ar.1092240217
