Bone mineralization after strontium and fluoride treatment in osteoporosis

The proton microprobe in combination with proton induced X-ray emission (mi cro-PIXE) and with proton induced gamma-ray emission (micro-PIGE) are used to determine quantitatively the modulation of inorganic deposits formation by Sr and F ions in a cell culture model. The results indicate that the pro cess may be investigated by the micro-PIXE determination of the amount of c alcium deposited. It was found that: F-treatment stimulate bone formation a t doses much lower than Sr. At high doses an impaired mineralization is fou nd for both elements. It was found that the mechanisms responsible for of F and Sr incorporations are different. The minimal F and Sr concentrations i n the medium at which the incorporation may be investigated by micro-PIGE a nd micro-PIXE amount to similar to 0.02 mg/l and <0.08 mg/l, respectively. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.