Demineralization Mineralization models

One of the most sensitive bioassays for osteoblast and osteoclast activities in vivo is the use of ectopic models of bone formation and bone matrix resorption (38,39). Devitalized, demineralized bone powders (DBP) are subcutaneously implanted in young rats. There is a phenotypic conversion of connective cell tissue mesenchyme into cartilage. Subsequently this cartilage becomes calcified, vascularized and bone is deposited in two weeks. If mineral-containing bone particles (BP) are implanted, a different phenomenon is observed. Large multinucleated osteoclast-like cells are recruited to the site of implantation. There is a complete resorption of the BP four weeks after implantation. In collaboration with Dr. Julie Glowacki of the Harvard University School of Medicine, we took advantage of these procedures and used implants of normal DBP and BP into rats that had been maintained on the three experimental diets C, L, and D (40). 

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