Nuclear analytical methods for trace element studies in calcified tissues

Area of Science:

• Nuclear analytical chemistry
• Biomaterials science
• Dental research

Background:

• Calcified tissues like teeth and bones are crucial for understanding human health and development.
• Accurate elemental composition analysis is vital for diagnosing and treating various conditions.
• Nuclear analytical techniques offer high sensitivity and specificity for elemental determination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply various nuclear analytical methods for determining the elemental composition of calcified tissues.
• To investigate the distribution of elements, including fluorine, carbon, calcium, and phosphorus, within dental hard tissues.
• To analyze elemental profiles on and around carious lesions and at the amelodentinal junction.

Main Methods:

• Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis (PGAA) for fluorine determination via the 19F(p, alpha gamma) 16O reaction.
• He-3 ion activation analysis for carbon measurement.
• Proton-Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) for simultaneous determination of Ca, P, and trace elements.
• Proton Microprobe analysis for surface distribution and depth profiling of elements.

Main Results:

• Elemental composition of dental hard tissues (enamel, dentine, cementum) was successfully determined.
• Fluorine, carbon, calcium, and phosphorus distribution was mapped in different dental tissue regions.
• Surface and depth elemental profiles, particularly for fluorine, were analyzed around carious lesions and up to the amelodentinal junction.

Conclusions:

• Nuclear analytical methods provide precise elemental quantification and spatial distribution in calcified tissues.
• These techniques are valuable for detailed examination of dental hard tissues and pathological changes.
• The findings contribute to a better understanding of elemental roles in dental health and disease.