LAUSR

OBJECTIVE Initial stages of cartilage matrix calcification depend on the activity of matrix vesicles. The purpose of the study was to describe how calcified matrix vesicles join into larger structures, to present their up-to-date undescribed 3-dimensional image, and to observe how calcified matrix relates to chondrocyte lacunae. DESIGN Calcified cartilage was obtained from the zone of provisional calcification of calf costochondral junctions, then enzymatically isolated and studied by microtomography, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. RESULTS Hyaluronidase digestion released packets of granules surrounded by the cartilage matrix. Further digestion, with collagenase and trypsin, removed matrix and exposed granules with dimensions within 50 to 150 nm range, which we consider as equivalent of calcified matrix vesicles. Granules joined into larger groups with dimensions of 0.5 to 2 μm, which we call globular units. Certain matrix vesicles appeared well connected but contained globular units that had spaces filled with electron lucent material, presumably matrix or chondrocyte remnants. Globular units were organized into massive structures taking the shape of oval plates. Comparison of these plates with lacunae containing isogenous groups of chondrocytes from proliferative zone of costochondral junction suggests that the cells from a single lacuna were responsible for the formation of one plate. The plates were connected with each other and extended over provisional calcification zone. CONCLUSIONS The outcome showed how particular calcified matrix vesicles associate into globular units, which organize into massive structures assuming the shape of oval plates and eventually cover large areas of cartilage matrix.