The matrix proteins that participate in crystalization fulfill important fu
nctions during the formation of the calcified tissues and contribute to the
biomechanical properties of the mature product. We suggest that osteoponti
n (OPN) is part of an array of macromolecules synthesized and secreted by t
he cells adjacent to the mineralization front that self-assemble outside th
e cell and direct crystal formation. The OPN meets the theoretical requirem
ents for involvement in the mineralization process. The phosphorylated resi
dues of acidic phosphoprotein have been shown to exist in the protein as re
active monoesters that are available for interaction with other ions, among
them crystal constituents such as calcium ions. In addition, sulfation of
OPN was also found to be associated with mineralization of other tissues. L
n contrast to the calbindin gene, whose expression is dependent on the calc
ium flux, the regulation of OPN synthesis is at least in part dependent on
the mechanical strain imposed by the resident egg. These results demonstrat
e the complexity of the regulation of the matrix genes governing eggshell f
ormation.