Biomineralizáció

Biomineralizáció is the process by which living organisms produce minerals, often to harden or stiffen existing tissues. This phenomenon is widespread across the biological kingdom, playing crucial roles in everything from skeletal support to defense mechanisms. Organisms utilize a variety of inorganic ions, such as calcium, phosphate, and silica, which are absorbed from their environment and then biochemically controlled to form solid mineral structures.

The most common biogenic minerals include calcium carbonate (calcite, aragonite) and calcium phosphate (hydroxyapatite). These are fundamental to the formation of bones and teeth in vertebrates, shells in mollusks and crustaceans, and exoskeletons in arthropods. In plants, phytoliths, which are silica-based structures, can be formed within cells to provide rigidity and deter herbivores. Even microorganisms like diatoms and radiolarians construct intricate silica shells called frustules.

The mechanisms of biomineralization are remarkably diverse and highly regulated. Organisms often use organic matrices, composed of proteins and polysaccharides, to template and control the nucleation and growth of mineral crystals. This controlled process allows for the precise shaping and structuring of mineralized tissues, leading to materials with unique mechanical properties. The study of biomineralization is important for understanding biological evolution, developing biomaterials, and even for geological research, as it contributes to the formation of sedimentary rocks.