Characterization of intra-cellular ionic concentrations of monocytes in contact with bioactive glasses and hydroxyapatite particles. A TEM cryo-x-ray analysis of diffusible ions

A cells viability can be altered by the presence of bioactive materials particles and their features. This paper compares the influence of hydroxyapatite particles and bioactive glass particles on intracellular ionic concentrations of the monocytes exposed to them. However, microanalysis of intracellular ions like sodium, potassium, and chlorine is a major problem. In order to limit diffusion phenomenon and to preserve the chemical identity of specimens, we used cryomethods (cryo-preparation, and cryo-x-ray microanalysis) to study cells in contact with bioactive materials particles. We measured intracellular ionic concentrations by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) associated with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDXS). Monocytes were exposed to bioactive glass particles and to hydroxyapatite particles during 2 days. The K/Na ratio was used as a sensitive criteria of viability of cells. Bioactive glass particles and, in a less manner, hydroxyapatite particles have an effect on intracellular ionic concentrations. These two types of bioactive particles alter cells. However, bioactive glass particles appear to alter cells more than hydroxyapatite particles.