The making of a sea shell: function and evolution of genes encoding calcareous architectures of phenomenal strength purity and beauty (2005-2007)
Abstract
Shells and skeletons of phenomenal strength purity and beauty are produced by a wide range of animals. These highly-order crystalline structures are genetically encoded. Here we investigate the molecular basis of microlaminate formation in mollusc shells. Using arguably the best model for biomineralisation - the abalone gastropod - we will characterise hundreds of genes encoding the structural and regulatory proteins that build shells with different structural properties. This investigation significantly expands our knowledge of the molecular cellular and evolutionary basis of biomineralisation and provides a foundation for a range of biotechnology innovations
