Contrasting effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on bone matrix and mineral appositional rates in the mouse.

In order to determine the effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) on bone matrix appositional rate (Ma AR) and bone mineral appositional rate (Mi AR), three doses (0.06, 0.13 and 0.20 microgram/kg/d) of 1,25(OH)2D3 were continuously infused for seven days in young mice. Histologic parameters of bone formation and resorption were evaluated by morphometric and autoradiographic methods. All doses of 1,25(OH)2D3 increased serum calcium and produced a dose-related increase in the metaphyseal osteoclastic surface and in the number of acid phosphatase-stained osteoclasts. The Mi AR evaluated by double tetracycline labeling was enhanced at all dosage levels. By contrast the Ma AR evaluated by double 3H-proline labeling was decreased at the two highest doses of 1,25(OH)2D3 which also produced growth impairment. We concluded that the continuous administration of 1,25(OH)2D3 in the mouse produces contrasting effects on bone matrix synthesis and calcification, resulting in a dose-related reduction in the amount of osteoid.