On the histological evidences of the organic content and reactions of marsupial enamel, with a note on human enamel

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Abstract
In Macropus brunii and M. ualabatus the enamel can be stained by methylene blue or fuchsin, either by introduction of the stains via the pulp chamber or by immersion of thick sections in the stains. Young enamel is more permeable than old. The enamel-tubules are interprismatic. Their patency decreases with age as they become gradually filled with calcific deposits. Cracks in both enamel and dentine (produced by the trauma of mastication) become occluded, the occlusion beginning peripherally, and extending toward the pulp. During repair of cracks there is first local increased patency of tubules and interprismatic substance, then hypercalci-fication by means of salts carried via the dentine. "Exchange of Ca salts goes on in enamel and dentine, governed from the pulp." "Marsupial enamel must therefore be regarded as a living tissue which reacts to injury and undergoes increased calcification as age and wear progress." "It follows, therefore, that many of the conclusions concerning marsupial enamel must also be true of human enamel.".

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