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Comparison of bone density patterns of the subaxial spine between chimpanzees and gorillas - A case study.

Journal of medical primatology·2022
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Differences in vertebral bone density between African apes.

Niina Korpinen1

  • 1Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.

American Journal of Biological Anthropology
|April 22, 2024
PubMed
Summary

African apes exhibit distinct vertebral bone density and microstructure compared to humans, with variations across spinal segments. This research highlights differences in chimpanzees and gorillas, offering insights into bone health and evolution.

Keywords:
African apesbone densityspinal segmentsvertebrae

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Area of Science:

  • Comparative anatomy
  • Primate skeletal biology
  • Bone densitometry

Background:

  • Low-energy vertebral fractures are common in elderly humans.
  • African apes appear to have fewer vertebral fractures than humans.
  • Limited research exists on great ape vertebral bone density across multiple spinal segments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate vertebral bone density and microstructure in African apes.
  • To compare vertebral bone parameters across different spinal segments (C7, T12, L3) in chimpanzees and gorillas.
  • To understand variations in vertebral bone density in African apes relative to humans.

Main Methods:

  • Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) was used to measure bone density.
  • Vertebral bone density was assessed in C7, T12, and L3 vertebrae.
  • The study included samples from 32 chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and 26 gorillas (Gorilla gorilla).

Main Results:

  • Significant differences in trabecular and cortical density and thickness were found between vertebrae and spinal segments.
  • Chimpanzees showed higher overall trabecular density, while gorillas had greater cortical density and thickness.
  • Cortical thickness was strongly associated with vertebral size, and variations differed between ape species and from human data.

Conclusions:

  • African apes display unique vertebral bone parameters and inter-segmental variations distinct from humans.
  • Locomotion, posture, and body size likely exert complex influences on vertebral microstructure in different spinal segments.
  • Findings contribute to understanding skeletal adaptations and fracture risk in primates.