Patterns of distribution of phosphomono-esterases on surfaces of demineralized bone

Decalcification over short periods (5 days) with MnNa2 EDTA, MgNa2 EDTA and EGTA according to a method described in the present paper, creates sections of high quality with simultaneous good preservation of phosphomonoesterases on bone surfaces. In fact, the enzyme distribution seems to be comparable to that obtained by using undecalcified sections. Na2 EDTA creates, on the other hand, poor preservation of alkaline phosphatase probably due to the fact that this chelate contrary to the other chelates removes the essential metal from the protein, leaving an unstable enzyme molecule which undergoes denaturation. Decalcification over longer periods (15 days) does not influence the pattern of distribution of acid phosphatase, whereas the alkaline phosphatase reaction becomes depressed in certain surface areas. The significance of this differential distribution is discussed. It might be an indication of differential processes of bone transformations in such a way that bone surfaces corresponding to areas of enzyme reactions are depository whereas bone surfaces corresponding to areas of lack of enzyme reaction are resorptive. New experimental designs are, however, necessary before the phenomenon is fully perceived. Two different coupling agents were used in connexion with the demonstration of acid phosphatase reaction. When HPR was used as the coupler the final enzyme distribution coincided with that usually described in the literature, i.e., strong reaction of cells adjacent to resorptive surfaces and weak reaction of cells adjacent to depository surfaces. When, however, Fast dark blue R was used all surface cells reacted markedly. This method also revealed certain cell types with nuclear reaction.