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Biologically active inorganic solids: Case study of iron oxides in the marine molluscs, limpets and chitons
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Biologically active inorganic solids: Case study of iron oxides in the marine molluscs, limpets and chitons

J. Webb, D.J. Macey, T.G. St Pierre and L.A. Evans
Australian journal of biotechnology, Vol.4(4), pp.265-267
1990
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Abstract

Biologically active inorganic solids are being used increasingly to inspire the development of new materials and novel technologies. The organization of the iron oxides present in the mineralizing teeth of the radula of limpets and chitons has been described at the sub-micron level. The magnetic and structural properties of these oxides and the iron core of the transport protein ferritin have been analysed in detail. The organization of the organic fibres within the teeth appears well suited to the role of the fibres as 'shock absorbers' during feeding on the rocky substrate. At the molecular level, these fibres are involved in the selective control of mineralization of iron and calcium in different regions of the teeth.

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