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Updated: Aug 13, 2026
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Analysis of Minerals Produced by hFOB 1.19 and Saos-2 Cells Using Transmission Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Microanalysis
Published on: June 24, 2018
Calcification mechanisms: roles for cells and mineral
Journal of Oral Pathology
|September 1, 1977
Summary
Cellular activity and mineral chemistry initiate hydroxyapatite formation via amorphous calcium phosphate precursors in tissues. This process is inhibited by common ions, with early deposits found in vesicles and granules.
Area of Science:
- Biomineralization
- Cellular Biology
- Mineral Chemistry
Background:
- Calcifying tissues form hydroxyapatite (HA), the stable calcium phosphate mineral.
- HA formation occurs via a soluble precursor, amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP).
- Small ions in tissues can inhibit the ACP to HA conversion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current hypotheses on initial mineral deposition in calcifying tissues.
- To highlight the roles of cellular activity and mineral chemistry in biomineralization.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature and findings on biomineralization.
- Analysis of cellular and mineralogical evidence in calcifying tissues.
Main Results:
- Amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) is the precursor to hydroxyapatite (HA).
- Biological ions significantly inhibit ACP to HA conversion.
- Early mineral deposits are observed in membranous vesicles and intramitochondrial granules.
Conclusions:
- Cellular structures like vesicles and granules are critical sites for initial mineral formation.
- Understanding the interplay between cellular activity and ion concentrations is key to biomineralization.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of controlled biomineralization.
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