Molecular Biomineralization Aquatic Organisms Forming Extraordinary Materials [Paperback]

The concept of biomineralization signifies mineralization processes that take place in close association with organic molecules or matrices. The awareness that mineral formation can be guided by organic molecules notably contributed to the understanding of the formation of the inorganic skeletons of living organisms. Modern electron microscopic and spectroscopic analyses have successfully demonstrated the participation of biological systems in several mineralization processes, and prominent examples include the formation of bio-silica in diatoms and sponges. This insight has already made the application of recombinant technology for the production of valuable inorganic polymers, such as bio-silica, possible. This polymer can be formed by silicatein under conditions that cannot be matched by chemical means. Similarly, the efforts described in this book have elucidated that certain organisms, bacteria in deep-sea polymetallic nodules and coccoliths in seamount crusts, are involved in the deposition of marine minerals. Strategies have already been developed to utilize such microorganisms for the biosynthesis and bioleaching of marine deposits. Moreover, studies reveal that bio-polymers enhance the hydroxyapatite formation of bone-forming cells and alter the expression of important regulators of bone resorption, suggesting a potential for bone regeneration and treatment / prevention of osteoporosis.Exploring mineralization occuring in association with organic molecules, from bio-silica to bacterial marine minerals to animal skeletons, this book connects recent research with the potential for bone regeneration and treatment or prevention of osteoporosis.Magnetite Biomineralization in Bacteria.- Maxi and Mini Ferritins: Minerals and Protein Nanocages.- Manganese Oxidation by Bacteria: Biogeochemical Aspects.- Molecular Biomineralization: Towards an Understanding of the Biogenic Origin of Polymetallic Nodules, Seamount Crusts and Hydrothermal Vents.-?Molecular basis of blc�