Interface between intramembranous and endochondral ossification in human foetuses

In the head and neck of human mid-term foetuses, the interface between areas of endochondral ossification and adjacent membranous (intramembranous) ossification is extensive. Using 8 foetal heads at 15-16 weeks, we have demonstrated differences in the matrices and composite cells between these 2 ossification processes, especially in the occipital squama and pterygoid process. Aggrecan-positive cartilage was shown to be invaded by a primitive bony matrix that was negative for aggrecan. At the interface, the periosteum was continuous with the perichondrium without any clear demarcation, but tenascin-c expression was restricted to the periosteum. In contrast, the interface between the epiphysis and shaft of the femur showed no clear localisation of tenascin-c. Versican expression tended to be restricted to the perichondrium. In the pterygoid process, the density of CD34-positive vessels was much higher in endochondral than in membranous ossification. The membranous part of the occipital was considered most likely to contribute to growth of the skull to accommodate the increased volume of the brain, while the membranous part of the pterygoid process seemed to be suitable for extreme flattening under pressure from the pterygoid muscles.