The organic matrix is comprised of proteins that require adequate amounts of zinc, manganese and copper in order to properly function. The trace minerals zinc, manganese and copper are essential co-factors for enzymes involved in the synthesis of the constituents that make up the bone matrix. A group of scientists at the University of California-San Diego began an investigation into the minerals needed for the organic bone framework after star basketball player Bill Walton developed multiple stress fractures in response to an unorthodox diet that provided very low levels of zinc, manganese and copper. The scientists conducted a literature search, and found that animals lost bone density when placed on diets that were deficient in zinc, manganese or copper. Manganese deficiency inhibits the biosynthesis of mucopolysaccharides that are used for organic bone matrix formation.
Copper deficiency prevents the healthy cross-linking of elastin to collagen.
The scientists noted that mature bone matrix is a complex, highly mineralized tissue with a structural framework composed primarily of collagen along with other connective tissue cells. The bone matrix is a living protein complex that provides the structure needed to hold calcium, magnesium and other minerals that give bone youthful strength and density. The next step the University of California scientists undertook was a study on postmenopausal women with a mean calcium intake of 606 mg a day. The results showed that those who consumed less than 606 mg a day of calcium have lower bone mineral densities compared to those whose calcium intake was above the mean. These same studies showed that women with low blood levels of copper also have lower bone mineral density levels.