Calcium pyrophosphate and brushite crystal surfaces (CPP/Brushite)

Calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) and brushite (dicalcium phosphate dihydrate) crystal surfaces are pathological mineral deposits that play central roles in crystal-induced arthropathies and urolithiasis. CPP crystals are the hallmark of Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition (CPPD) disease, where they form in joint tissues and trigger the NLRP3 inflammasome in macrophages, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β (Martinon et al., 2006). Brushite is a common component of calcium phosphate kidney stones and often serves as a kinetic precursor to the formation of hydroxyapatite in both dental and renal calculi (Tiselius, 2013). The surfaces of these crystals are considered therapeutic targets because their specific lattice structures and surface energies facilitate the adsorption of proteins and the further accretion of ions. Pharmacological strategies involve using small molecules like bisphosphonates or citrate that bind to these surfaces to inhibit crystal growth and aggregation (Russell et al., 2011). By masking the crystal surface, these agents can also reduce the physical interactions between the mineral and immune cells, thereby dampening the inflammatory response (Grases et al., 1991). Understanding the interfacial chemistry of these crystals is essential for developing targeted therapies that can prevent or reverse pathological calcification.

Other names

Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystalsCPPD crystalsBrushite crystalsDicalcium phosphate dihydrateDCPDPseudogout crystals

Inhibition of crystal nucleation, growth, and aggregation via surface adsorption and stabilization of mineral phases.