A striking property that distinguishes enamel from other mineralized tissues is______________?
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Answer: D. Most of organic component is lost during mineralization
Explanation
Unlike other mineralized tissues, enamel undergoes extensive maturation where the vast majority of its organic matrix is degraded. Proteolytic enzymes break down amelogenin and enamelin proteins, allowing mineral crystals to grow and pack tightly. This unique maturation process leaves mature enamel with only about one percent organic content by weight. Enamel mineralization begins with a soft organic matrix that is gradually replaced by precipitating hydroxyapatite crystals. Bone, dentin, and cementum retain significant amounts of organic collagen matrix throughout the lifespan of the tissue. Enamel maturation occurs during the late bell stage and continues right up until tooth eruption takes place.
Enamel actually possesses a remarkably low percentage of organic matrix once maturation is fully completed. Incremental lines are present in enamel, but they do not distinguish enamel from other mineralized tissues. Enamel has zero reparative capacity because its formative cells degenerate before the tooth ever erupts.
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