Colloidal beta-tricalcium phosphate prepared by discharge in a modified body fluid facilitates synthesis of collagen...

The development of hydroxyapatite/collagen composites that are naturally synthesized and need no additional treatment is required for use in bone repair. Since reducing the diameter can increase the specific surface area of calcium phosphate particles that can conjugate collagen molecules, we expected colloidal calcium phosphates of submicron diameter obtained by discharge to be effective in formulating these composites. Additionally, since biodegradable beta-tricalcium phosphate has better osteoconductivity than hydroxyapatite, this study aimed to investigate the synthesis of colloidal hydroxyapatite and beta-tricalcium phosphate/collagen composites. Collagen molecules were tightly polymerized in the beta-tricalcium phosphate/collagen composite by catalysis of the generated -P-O-P- polyphosphate chain. Bonding strength between collagen NH+ amino groups and -P-O-P-, and cross-linking of the Ca++-RCOO- in the collagen were increased compared with those in the hydroxyapatite/collagen composite. These chemical reactions due to colloidal beta-tricalcium phosphate might play a key role in the synthesis of collagen composites.