Abstract
Seventeen-week-old male Wistar rats corresponding to the prime of life in human were used. In control group, rats were fed with standard diet for 6 weeks. In calcium-deficient group and low calcium group, calcium-deficient and low calcium chows were fed for 3 weeks, followed by standard chow feeding for another 3 weeks. The effects of the dietary therapy on bone matrix formation were investigated, and results were as follows. 1. Weight No significant differences were observed among the control and experimental groups. 2. Radiographic findings In calcium deficient group, the width and number of trabeculae were decreased, arrangement irregular, and less radiopaque. Low calcium rats exhibited the equivalent appearance to that of control animals. 3. Microdensitometric findings Calcium deficient group exhibited lower density than control treatment. 4. Histopathological findings Control group exhibited dense matrix, thick cortex in both outer and inner circumferential lamellae, and well-developed Harversian systems. In contrast, reduction of lacunae and expansion of marrow cavities were observed in calcium deficient group. Resorption and irregular distribution of trabeculae were seen. Low calcium rats exhibited equivalent findings to that of control animals. 5. SEM findings Regularly distributed collagen fibrils were seen in matrix formative area in control treatment. Lacunae and canalicali opening were distinctly observed. In contrast, resorptive area expanded and collagen fibrils were loosely arranged in calcium deficient treatment. Calcareous microdepositions and collagen fibrils were seen in the upper section of bone formative areas. Low calcium rats exhibited comparable findings to those of control animals. 6. Hematological findings No significant differences could be seen among the control and experimental groups in serum level of calcium, phosphorus, ratio of calcium to phosphorus, sodium, potassium, and chloride. Calcium deficient rats exhibited higher GOT and CPK level than the control animals. From the above results, it is suggested that bone loss can be well restored by dietary therapy, particularly in low calcium group, if calcium is sufficiently stored in bone tissues.
