The occurrence of silicon-containing particles in calcified lesions of DBA/2NCrj mice

The crystalline structure in calcified deposits of DBA/2 mice was analysed, because understanding this is essential in assessing the significance of this species as an animal model for spontaneous soft-tissue mineralization. In order to remove the thin soft tissue which covers the lesion, the samples were bombarded with an argon beam. The uncoated samples were analysed with an electron-probe microanalyser. The deposits were composed of a calcium phosphate material. At a higher magnification, smaller particles surrounding these large deposits were found. There were three types of particles: rod-shaped (calcium phosphate), polygonal (silicate) and round (about 1 μm dia).