What is the Role of Matrix Vesicles in Biomineralization?
Matrix vesicles act as nucleation sites for the deposition of mineral crystals. They concentrate calcium and phosphate ions to supersaturating levels, facilitating the formation of initial hydroxyapatite crystals. These crystals then grow and propagate, eventually leading to the mineralization of the extracellular matrix. This process is essential for the development of hard tissues such as bone and cartilage.
