Biomineralization.ppt

Biomineralization Mimi Fang November 16, 2006 Lecture Outline Definition Examples Functions General mechanism Bone formation Bone calcification matrix vesicles collagen Bone and teeth comparison Summary What is Biomineralization? Definition “Biomineralization is the process by which mineral crystals are deposited in an organized fashion in the matrix (either cellular or extracellular) of living organisms” (Boskey, 1998). Examples Magnetotactic bacteria iron oxides Crustaceans magnesium silicates Carniverous marine worm Glycera teeth atacamite (copper chloride mineral) Invertebrate shells vertebrate skeletons calcium carbonates, calcium phosphates Examples The field used to be called “calcification” However, many of the minerals don’t contain calcium, thus the change to “biomineralization” Many Functions Biomineralization function varies between organisms Functions structural stability locomotion protection sound reception toxic waste disposal temporary ion storage magnetic orientation General Biomineralization Mechanism 1.) Nucleation Specific (anionic) protein nucleators that provide a template or sequester the ions and direct the ions in an ordered orientation to form the initial crystal structure 2.) Crystal expansion ions add onto specific sites on the initial crystals crystals aggregate 3.) “Other” molecules (ex. matrix proteins) regulate crystal expansion can bind to the crystals to inhibit or shape crystal formation can transport or sequester ions Why do we care about calcification? Correct bone defects Osteoporosis Rickets Bone breaks Improve bone quality Correct dental defects and cosmetics Tooth damage Abnormal formation Periodontal disease Why do we care about calcification? Skeleton of a man with Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva. (A) Plates and ribbons of ectopic bone contour the skin over the back and arms can be visualized directly on the skeleton. (B) After death from pneumonia at age 40 years. Bone Derived from mesenchymal stem