Vitamin A deficiency and new bone growth: histologic changes

Abstract
Using a standardized guinea pig model system, the histologic appearance of newly formed bone from vitamin A deficient, vitamin A adequate and retinoic acid treated animals was compared. Microscopic examination of the histologic sections of bone collected from vitamin A deficient guinea pigs indicated the presence of highly cellular and loosely woven bone spicules. This model system was an osteoblastic model, since osteoclasts were essentially absent in tissue formed in 14 day implants. Apparently new bone formation in the vitamin A deficient guinea pig reveals morphologic changes which are principally mediated through the osteoblastic process.