Abstract: An apparatus and technique for measuring volumetric, 3-D bone organic matrix density is described. The techniques includes providing a first pulse sequence fragment selected to suppress at least two fluid resonance signals and providing a second pulse sequence fragment which images at least solid signals. In one embodiment, a series of RF pulses used to suppress fluid in the bone marrow spaces, particularly in cancellous bone tissue, is combined with solid state projection reconstruction magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to provide a three-dimensional image of a bone in which the dominant signal arises substantially from solid organic bone matrix.

Abstract: Principles of magnetic resonance are employed to generate data, such as image intensity data, reflecting the spatial distribution of one or more isotopes carried in a solid-state specimen such as bone. The spatial distribution data can be employed, e.g., to calculate bone mineral density and/or degree of mineralization.

Abstract: Bovine bone cells express osteometrin, a 35 kDA phosphoprotein specifically expressed in bone and dentin tissue. We have found that protein reactive with anti-osteometrin antisera is detectable in a wide range of species, and that osteometrin expression is detectable during mineralization of bone tissue. Our findings establish that osteometrin is an indicator of bone metabolism and may be involved in highly conserved aspects of bone and dentin metabolism. Osteometrin is used as a marker for osteoporosis and bone cancer.

Abstract: The present invention is a process for first removing and isolating the calcium-phosphate crystals of bone from a substantial amount of the organic matrix and cellular constituents of bone without significant physical, chemical or structural alterations in the crystals. The crystals can then be further treated to remove the remaining amount of organic material associated with the crystals, leaving them essentially free of any of the organic constituents of bone, without significant physical, chemical or structural alterations in the crystals.

Abstract: The present invention is a process for first removing and isolating the calcium-phosphate crystals of bone from a substantial amount of the organic matrix and cellular constituents of bone without significant physical, chemical or structural alterations in the crystals. The crystals can then be further treated to remove the remaining amount of organic material associated with the crystals, leaving them essentially free of any of the organic constituents of bone, without significant physical, chemical or structural alterations in the crystals.

Abstract: The present invention is a process for first removing and isolating the calcium-phosphate crystals of bone from a substantial amount of the organic matrix and cellular constituents of bone without significant physical, chemical or structural alterations in the crystals. The crystals can then be further treated to remove the remaining amount of organic material associated with the crystals, leaving them essentially free of any of the organic constituents of bone, without significant physical, chemical or structural alterations in the crystals.