MITOCHONDRIAL GRANULES IN CHONDROCYTES

Rat and mice epiphyseal growth plates were studied with the electron microscope. A gradient of mitochondrial electron-dense granules was found. Chondrocytes in the proliferative zone had few granules, while those of the succeeding zones showed a gradual increase in number and density until the zone of provisional calcification was reached. This zone showed a peripheral distribution of mitochondria and a decrease in the number and density of mitochondrial granules. Isotopic47calcium was used autoradiographically to determine the location of calcium in these cells. Grains were found over the endoplasmic reticulum membranes and over most mitochondria. The demonstration of a gradient of these granules and their spatial relation to the mineralization front suggests a possible involvement of mitochondria in the onset of matrix calcification. © 1969 Springer-Verlag.