Transcriptional regulation of the matrix protein Shematrin-2 during shell formation in pearl oyster.

ABSTRACT: The molluscan shell is a fascinating biomineral consisting of a highly organized calcium carbonate composite. Biomineralization is elaborately controlled and involves several macromolecules, especially matrix proteins, but little is known about the regulatory mechanisms. The matrix protein Shematrin-2, expression of which peaks in the mantle tissues and in the shell components of the pearl oyster Pinctada fucata, has been suggested to be a key participant in biomineralization. Here, we expressed and purified Shematrin-2 from P. fucata and explored its function and transcriptional regulation. An in vitro functional assay revealed that Shematrin-2 binds the calcite, aragonite, and chitin components of the shell, decreases the rate of calcium carbonate deposition, and cha

SUBMITTER: Chen Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6240880 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature