A WSPC reference on biomineralization
Fratzl, P. (2026). A WSPC reference on biomineralization. World Scientific Publishing: Singapore. ISBN 978-981-98-2971-2. 1328 pp. https://dx.doi.org/10.1142/14761
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| Content |
- Tambutté, S.; Venn, A.A.; Ganot, P.; Tambutté, E.; Gilbert, P.U.P.A. (2026). From cells to skeletons: comparing octocorals and hexacorals, in: Fratzl, P. A WSPC Reference on Biomineralization. pp. 665-746. https://dx.doi.org/10.1142/9789819829705_0010, more
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| Abstract |
This book explores how biominerals fulfill a wide range of functions in living organisms. Foremost, they stiffen endo- and exoskeletons of many animals. The bone of vertebrates is a collagen-based organic matrix reinforced by calcium phosphate nanoparticles. Some vertebrates that lack a bony skeleton, such as sharks and rays, use calcium phosphate to form calcified tesserae covering the cartilaginous skeleton. Calcium carbonate and other minerals reinforce the exoskeleton of many crustaceans, not only for protection but also to provide efficient tools, such as the crab pincer. Sea shells are generally based on calcium carbonate, mainly calcite and aragonite. Unicellular algae often protect themselves with a mineral shell made of calcium carbonate (coccolithophores) or silica (diatoms). Silica is also the basis of the skeleton of some deep-sea sponges. Minerals may also have optical functions, such as the calcite lenses in the eyes of the brittlestar. Magnetic iron oxide particles allow bacteria to orient themselves in the Earth's magnetic field. And, of course, minerals are also a store of essential ions, to the point that mammalian bone is considered an endocrine organ that controls the homeostasis of calcium and phosphate, both ions that are essential for many cellular processes. All these diverse aspects are addressed in this work by world-renowned scientists. The three volumes are a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and advanced students in disciplines such as geosciences, paleontology, evolutionary and developmental biology, ecology, physical chemistry, materials science, civil engineering, endocrinology, regenerative medicine, and many others. |
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