Observations with the light microscope on the distribution and connexions of the oxytalan fibre of the lower jaw of the mouse

Abstract

Serial sections through the lower jaw of the adult laboratory mouse, stained by aldehyde-fuchsin following oxidation by potassium monopersulphate, show that the majority of oxytalan fibres run between periodontal vessels and cementum. The fibres may also be stained by chrome alum haematoxylin and alcoholic basic fuchsin, also after a stage of oxidation. These stains, which also outline cell membranes and processes, show that the oxytalan fibres are very intimately related to cell processes, and appear to be continuous with them at the resolution of the light microscope. The orientation of most of the oxytalan fibres is obliquely across the periodontal membrane, frequently perpendicular to the direction of the bundles of collagen. These fibres are also oblique to the main directions of compressional force of the tooth on the periodontal membrane. Their direction and attachments therefore suggest that they are concerned with the stability, and possible patency, of the periodontal vessels under pressure. The other major group of fibres is located towards the mesial end of the incisor periodontal membrane, where they are closely applied to the vessels and run forward to the gingiva. These fibres may also lend stability to the vascular plexus.