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Synchrotron imaging reveals bone healing and remodelling strategies in extinct and extant vertebrates
DOI:
10.1098/rsif.2014.0277
PMID:
24806709
Authors:
J.
Anne
(University of Manchester)
,
Nicholas
Edwards
(University of Manchester)
,
R A
Wogelius
(University of Manchester)
,
A. R.
Tumarkin-deratzian
(Temple University, Philadelphia)
,
William
Sellers
(University of Manchester)
,
Arjen
Van Veelen
(University of Manchester)
,
U.
Bergmann
(SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory)
,
D.
Sokaras
(SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory)
,
R.
Alonso-mori
(SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory)
,
Konstantin
Ignatyev
(Diamond Light Source)
,
Victoria
Egerton
(University of Manchester)
,
Phillip
Manning
(University of Manchester)
Co-authored by industrial partner:
No
Type:
Journal Paper
Journal:
Journal Of The Royal Society Interface
, VOL 11 (96)
, PAGES 20140277 - 20140277
State:
Published (Approved)
Published:
July 2014

Abstract: Current understanding of bone healing and remodelling strategies in vertebrates has traditionally relied on morphological observations through the histological analysis of thin sections. However, chemical analysis may also be used in such interpretations, as different elements are known to be absorbed and used by bone for different physiological purposes such as growth and healing. These chemical signatures are beyond the detection limit of most laboratory-based analytical techniques (e.g. scanning electron microscopy). However, synchrotron rapid scanningX-ray fluorescence (SRSXRF) is an elemental mapping technique that uniquely combines high sensitivity (ppm), excellent sample resolution (20100 µm) and the ability to scan large specimens (decimetre scale) approximately 3000 times faster than other mapping techniques. Here, we use SRSXRF combined with microfocus elemental mapping (220 µm) to determine the distribution and concentration of trace elements within pathological and normal bone of both extant and extinct archosaurs (Cathartes aura and Allosaurus fragilis). Results reveal discrete chemical inventories within different bone tissue types and preservation modes. Chemical inventories also revealed detail of histological features not observable in thin section, including fine structures within the interface between pathological and normal bone as well as woven texture within pathological tissue.
Subject Areas:
Environment,
Materials,
Biology and Bio-materials
Instruments:
I18-Microfocus Spectroscopy
Other Facilities: SSRL