title: X-ray microanalysis of growth cartilage after rapid freezing, low temperature freeze drying and embedding in resin.
abstract: This paper reviews the work undertaken on the X-ray microanalysis of growth cartilage particularly in relation to matrix calcification. Attention is focused on the methodology available to accurately localize and retain the elements of interest. A method is described which involves rapid freezing, low temperature freeze drying in a custom built device, and embedding in Spurr resin. The results show that little tissue damage occurs and that elements of physiological interest are accurately localized at the sub-cellular level. Where damage occurs to chondrocytes as a result of freezing, however, dense intra mitochondrial granules are seen suggesting a phase transformation takes place resulting in the precipitation of calcium phosphate. Further improvements may be made in retaining the more labile elements such as K by using resins which polymerize at low temperature.
authors.affiliation: E.M. Unit, School of Dental Surgery, University of Liverpool, U.K.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Appleton
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D004577:Electron Probe Microanalysis / Q000379:methods; D005612:Freeze Drying; D005615:Freezing; D006132:Growth Plate / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D006652:Histological Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation; D012116:Resins, Plant
chemical_list: D012116:Resins, Plant