Mechanisms of Calcification in Octocorals
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Most calcareous structures of invertebrates contain an organic matrix           that plays a primary role in calcification.  The calcium carbonate              spicules of the octocoral Leptogorgia virgulata form in association with        an organic matrix.  The protein of EDTA-insoluble matrix is                     predominantly collagenous in the summer, but contains little collagen in        winter.  The association of collagen in calcium carbonate skeletons and         its seasonal variability are very unique in biomineralization systems.          The reduction of collagen in winter suggests spicule decalcification and        subsequent collagen degradation which can be seen under electron                microscope examination.                                                                                                                                         The research plan involves a comprehensive biochemical analyses of the          organic matrix composition of the spicules at different times of the            year.  The study is coupled to electron microscope investigations of the        spicules and matrices.  These studies are important to elucidate the            remodeling of the skeletal structures of biological systems.                                                                                                    Additionally a immunocytochemical study at the ultrastructural level is         planned to determine which component of the soluble and insoluble               spicule matrices, i.e., collagen, glycoproteins etc., is responsible for        nucleation of calcium carbonante crystals.  The study will clarify a            number of questions about the roles of matrices in initiation and               inhibition of biological crystal growth, an area that has been                  historically disputed.
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[{'Code': '1141', 'Text': 'PHYSIOLOG & STRUCTURAL SYS'}, {'Code': '9120', 'Text': 'CROSS-DIRECTORATE PROGRAMS'}]
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