Hemolytic activity of five different calcium silicates.

Mineral characteristics and the in vitro hemolytic activity of three synthetic and two natural calcium silicates (CaSi) are compared. Hemolysis is higher for the synthetic compounds than for the natural ones. The difference is accentuated by weak ultrasonication of the minerals. No variation was observed within the two groups, including both acicular and fibrous forms. Calcium was released from the minerals during storage in Tris-buffered saline. At the same time, hemolysis decreased, and crystallographic alterations occurred in the leached minerals. Treatment of the CaSi with calcium chelators (EGTA and EDTA) did not change hemolytic activity. An increase was observed when 30 mM calcium was added. Hemolysis is related to specific surface areas and the crystalline structure of the minerals. Calcium may also be a contributing factor.