Vascularization and endochondral bone development: changes in plasminogen activator activity.

Changes in plasminogen activator activity were studied during the sequential developmental stages of matrix-induced cartilage, bone, and bone marrow development. The morphological transitions were correlated with biochemical parameters. Morphologic evidence of vascularization of calcified hypertrophic cartilage was accompanied by a concomitant rise in plasminogen activator activity. Thereafter, a steady decline during mineralization and deposition of new bone was observed. Maximal plasminogen activator activity occurs at approximately the same time as peak activity of alkaline and acid phosphatase. These results imply a role for plasminogen activator during angiogenesis, vascular invasion, and attendant bone differentiation.