Ameloblast modulation and changes in the Ca, P, and S content of developing enamel matrix as revealed by SEM-EDX

Freeze-dried rat incisors were examined by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy-dispersive x-ray microanalysis (EDX) for determination of the correlation between the morphology of the enamel organ and the concentrations in the adjacent developing enamel matrix of calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and sulfur (S), as well as the Ca/P ratio. In SEM examination of the freeze-dried enamel organ, it was possible to identify the stages of enamel secretion, transition, and maturation, and furthermore to identify ruffle-ended and smooth-ended maturation ameloblasts. EDX analysis of the outer layer of forming and maturing enamel was carried out from the apical to the incisal end at interval points of approximately 50 micron. Ca and P concentrations increased gradually and continuously from the secretion zone to the end of the maturation zone, but never showed a steep rise in any of the zones examined. Maturing enamel overlaid by either ruffle-ended or smooth-ended maturation ameloblasts showed similar Ca and P concentrations. Throughout the outer enamel layer, the Ca/P molar ratio was fairly constant. Sulfur concentration began to decrease in the zone of enamel secretion, and was no longer detected in the middle of the maturation zone.