Radiogenic free radicals as molecular probes in bone.

Exposure of bone mineral to X-rays generates free radicals. These are usually very labile, but can be stabilized at liquid nitrogen temperatures for study by electron spin resonance spectroscopy. The free radicals thus detected in the present study included one with resonances arising from an electron excess center and 2 species with electron-deficit centers: a phosphate anion radical and a radical associated with carbonate. Each of these radicals seemed to be located chiefly at the mineral surface and was sensitive to the surface environment. Presence of an organic phase, as in whole bone, modified free radical production in a manner that suggests interference with the formation of electron deficit centers. Comparison with other synthetic minerals suggests that precipitated carbonate-apatites are good models for bone mineral.