Time-Resolved in situ Raman Spectroscopic Observations of a Biomineralization Model System

The mechanisms underlying the formation of nanocrystalline apatite in vertebrate hard tissues (i.e. bones and teeth) remain nebulous. The long-held view of biomineralization via “classical crystallization theory”, or ion-by-ion addition from solution, is challenged by “non-classical” theories in which the pathway proceeds through transient precursor phases [1]. The presence of an amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) mineral precursor has been observed during the formation of zebrafish fin bones and dental enamel [2, 3]. However, the sample preparation necessary for electron microscopy and ethical considerations inherent to vertebrate samples preclude in situ observations of apatite mineralization.