Application of the Cell-Maceration/Scanning Electron Microscope Method to the Collagen Fibers of Rat Periodontal Ligament

抄録

Using the cell-maceration/scanning electron microscope (SEM) method with sodium hydrate (NaOH), the periodontal ligament fibers surrounding rat molars 1-9 weeks after birth were investigated. The specimens, demineralized with 10 % EDTA and cut into small pieces, were variably treated with NaOH concentrations. The hypo-concentration and the short maceration time retained the cellular and fiber elements, whereas the hyper-concentration and the longer maceration time or the higher room temperature damaged the collagen fibrils in the bone, cementum, and dentin; in addition, they caused the periodontal ligament fibers to swell. The suitable conditions of the NaOH concentration and the maceration time on the periodontal ligament surrounded by the mineralized tissues were 5-10 % and 5 days at room temperature of 20-25°C. Under such treatment, the three-dimensional structure of the periodontal ligament fibers was revealed with the SEM, and the arrangement of the fibers was similar to that under the light microscopic observation.