Relationship between magnesium and elastic fibres
Müller, W.; Iffland, R.; Firsching, R.
Magnesium Research 6(3): 215-222
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0953-1424 PMID: 8292494 Document Number: 405288
The presence of magnesium was demonstrated by histochemical methods in elastic fibres from different locations. After pretreatment with elastase a positive reaction could no longer be detected. Microfibrils which enclose the elastin core of the elastic fibres gave no positive reaction. These results support the supposition of a close relationship between Mg and elastin. Determination of the Ca/Mg ratio by atomic absorption spectrometry in variants of fibrous connective tissue showed a decreasing Ca level with increasing elasticity. The Ca/Mg ratio in latices containing rubber-like particles disclosed striking diminution of Ca. These data support the speculation that the antagonism of Mg to Ca plays a fundamental role in the maintenance of elasticity. The special interaction of the Mg-2+ ion with water molecules is very probably a further prerequisite for elasticity in natural elastic materials.