Proteins in the biomineralization process of fish otoliths

Biomineralization of fish otoliths is regulated by macromolecules, such as proteins, whose presence is crucial for the functionality and properties of these mineralized structures. In this study, we investigated the effect of a protein on calcium carbonate biominerals. The bioinspired minerals grown in the presence of the protein show radically different morphology and protein distribution within the crystals depending on the prior exposition of the protein to calcium or carbonate ions. The finding suggests the pathway in which the environmental factors may influence the macromolecular functionality of biomineralization.

Figure: The CaCO₃ crystals grown in the presence of the Starmaker-like protein show radically different morphology and intra-crystalline protein distribution depending on the prior exposition of the protein to calcium or carbonate ions.