Immunohistochemical localization of types I, II, and III collagens in the ossified posterior longitudinal ligament of the human cervical spine

Calcif Tissue Int. 1983;35(2):159-63. doi: 10.1007/BF02405024.

Abstract

Immunohistochemical localization of types I, II, and III collagen in the ossified posterior longitudinal ligament of the cervical spine was studied using type-specific anticollagen antibodies. In contrast to the normal ligament which contains both types I and III collagens, the ossified matrix, composed of lamellar bone, contains only type I collagen, except for Haversian canals where type III is located in the inner wall. In the transitional region of preossifying ligaments, types III and I are both present. Type II collagen is present in the hyperplastic matrix of the ligament, and cartilage-like cells surrounded by type II collagen are aligned along nonossified ligaments adjacent to the preossifying region. A possible mechanism of matrix transition during the ossification process is given attention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cervical Vertebrae / analysis*
  • Collagen / analysis*
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique
  • Histocytochemistry
  • Humans
  • Ligaments / analysis*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Ossification, Heterotopic / metabolism*
  • Spinal Diseases / metabolism*
  • Spinal Diseases / pathology

Substances

  • Collagen