How do ECM polymers affect the formation of inorganic minerals?

An emerging field in biofilm research is their involvement in biomineralization. Specifically, evidence going back to Precambrian time, shows that biofilms were associated with the formation of layered rocks of calcium carbonate (stromatolites). 'Mineralized' biofilms become difficult to be mechanically removed, but they may be utilized positively to fill holes in cement. We examine the effect of the ECM components on the mineralization of calcium carbonate and other minerals.

Publications:

Azulay, D. N., Fraenkel, M., & Chai,L.A Bacterial Biofilm Polysaccharide Affects the Morphology and Structure of Calcium Oxalate  Crystals. Crystal Growth & Design, (2023).

Azulay DN, Chai L. Calcium Carbonate Formation in the Presence of Biopolymeric Additives. Journal of Visualized Experiments [Internet]. 2019;(147).

Azulay DN, Abbasi R, Ktorza IBS, Remennik S, M AR, Chai L. Biopolymers from a Bacterial Extracellular Matrix Affect the Morphology and Structure of Calcium Carbonate Crystals. Crystal Growth and Design [Internet]. 2018;18 (9) :5582–5591.