Study of bone matrix changes induced by osteoporosis in rat tibia using Raman spectroscopy

The mineral to matrix ratio [959 cm−1/(855 cm−1 + 877 cm−1 + 922 cm−1)] was reduced, suggesting decreased mineral quantity in the osteoporotic tibiae compared to controls. The carbonate to phosphate ratio [1072 cm−1/959 cm−1] and mineral crystallinity were found to increase. Band changes of the amide I envelope were attributed to alteration of collagen cross-linking which was found to accompany the increased fragmentation and removal of the fibers. It was, thus, concluded that severe deterioration of collagen network takes place following disease as it not only lessens but it loses its elasticity as well.