Model systems, biomineralization crystals

The synthesis of molecular precursors responsible for tailored nucle-ation and growth is a key feature in the chemical control of biomineralization. Here we highlight recent studies using simplified model systems that aim to identify aspects of solution chemistry important in (1) silica polymerization and aggregation and (2) the morphological design of calcite crystals. 

In almost all instances of biological mineralization fibrous proteins represent the bulk of the organic matrix. In the past, this phenomenon has been interpreted to mean that proteins such as collagen, keratin or elastin are the key elements in mineralization by providing nucleation sites and at the same time offering structure and space for oriented crystal growth. However, with the advance in the field of biomineralization this model came under severe attack. At present, there is no universal concept which could explain all the intriguing facets of phosphate deposition in cellular systems. 

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