Structure of the disulfide-rich modules of a striking tandem repeat protein, avian cysteine-rich eggshell membrane protein.

ABSTRACT: Avian eggshell membrane (ESM) is fabricated within the isthmus region of the oviduct and is comprised of three juxtaposed, predominantly proteinaceous layers lying between egg white and the calcified shell. The limiting membrane is less than 0.5 μm in thickness and forms the osmotic barrier for the egg. This first layer provides the foundation for the successive deposition of two mats of protein fibers. Fibers from both inner and outer layers appear to have similar amino acid compositions and are notably disulfide-rich (comprising about 10% Cys). ESM has been utilized in a wide variety of applications, including nutraceutical supplements, tissue engineering, and nanofabrication, and yet fundamental questions concerning protein composition, fiber structure, and membrane assembly remain to b

SUBMITTER: Zeinalilathori S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12723725 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature