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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2011
Certain metals (such as Al) are known to cause bone pathologies in humans and animals. While little is known about the mechanism of action of metals on either the formation of bone or on the physical-chemical properties of the mineral phase, there is considerable evidence that (1) Al and Cd directly affect the formation and properties of HA and thus are a causative factor in metal-related defective bone formation—in addition to any cellular effects which they may induce; (2) that other transition metals (such as Cr, V, Ti, Ni, Co), which are used in joint prostheses, significantly affect HA formation; and (3) gallium, the most effective antihypercalcemic agent, affects apatite formation and solubility.