Transmission electron microscopy of reparative dentin in rat molar pulps. Primary mineralization via extracellular matrix vesicles.

A reparative dentin bridge was induced in rat molar teeth by pulp exposure and capping with calcium hydroxide. Transmission electron-microscopic examination after 10 days revealed the presence of odontoblastic cells and collagenous matrix with focal calcifications. The calcifying fronts were composed of hydroxyapatite crystals. Numerous extracellular matrix vesicles were scattered between the forming cells and the calcifying fronts. Some of the vesicles contained electron-dense material and in others, apatite crystals were detected. Matrix vesicles could not be identified in normal, mature calcifying dentin matrix. In view of the present observations and studies on surgical manipulations in articular cartilage, it is concluded that matrix vesicle calcification may result from alterations in the metabolic state of mesenchymal tissues. These changes can be induced surgically or chemically.