Mineralization-related modifications in the calcifying tendons of turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)

The electron microscopy revealed in the mineralized tendon traces of pre-existing crimps, locked in the straightened-out position by the infiltrating mineral phase. This latter was composed of two different types of fine particles, respectively, growing inside and around the collagen fibrils and appearing as tightly packed platelets or as larger, flat platelets regularly arranged in phase with the D-period of collagen. The perifibrillar mineral could play a critical role in the mechanical coupling of adjoining fascicles and in the transmission of tensile loads along the tendon itself.