The Gln-rich protein twip1 promotes high-density {110} twins formation in the shell of the limpet <i>Cellana rota</i>.

ABSTRACT: Aragonite, a polymorph of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), exhibits enhanced mechanical properties due to crystal defects such as twins, which are particularly prevalent in biogenic aragonite and can inhibit crack propagation. Despite the importance, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the formation of aragonite {110} twins in marine organisms have remained poorly understood. Identifying a key inducer for {110} twins could help us understand how crystal defects are controlled in biomineralization. In this study, we explore the role of a protein, twip1, in inducing a high density of {110} twins within the aragonite layers of the limpet Cellana rota shell. Through a combination of layer-specific protein profiling and in vitro aragonite binding assays, twip1 is identified as

SUBMITTER: Li S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12318190 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature