Particle-Attachment-Mediated and Matrix/Lattice-Guided Enamel Apatite Crystal Growth.

ABSTRACT: Tooth enamel is a hard yet resilient biomaterial that derives its unique mechanical properties from decussating bundles of apatite crystals. To understand enamel crystal nucleation and growth at a nanoscale level and to minimize preparation artifacts, the developing mouse enamel matrix was imaged in situ using graphene liquid cells and atomic resolution scanning transmission electron and cryo-fracture electron microscopy. We report that 1-2 nm diameter mineral precipitates aggregated to form larger 5 nm particle assemblies within ameloblast secretory vesicles or annular organic matrix subunits. Further evidence for the fusion of 1-2 nm mineral precipitates into 5 nm mineral aggregates via particle attachment was provided by matrix-mediated calcium phosphate crystal growth studies. As a nex

SUBMITTER: Jokisaari JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7067265 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature