Intracellular mineralization of Bacterionema matruchotii

Intracellular calcium phosphate mineral formation in Bacterionema matruchotii has been examined relative to two established points: the product of calcium and phosphorus levels at which spontaneous precipitation occurs (Ca x P), 50 (mg%)2, and the product at which calcium hydroxyapatite itself induces crystal growth, 35 (mg%) 2. The extent of intracellular mineralization in the defined calcifying medium was determined analytically after washing the cells. Electron micrographs of B. matruchotii cells revealed needlelike crystals of mineral, typical of calcium hydroxyapatite. Bacterionema matruchotii was found to be an efficient nucleator and can bring about the formation of solid phase at a Ca x P product as low as 35 (mg%)2.