Nanoforms: A new type of protein-associated mineralization

Controversy surrounds the interpretation of various nano-phenomena as being living organisms. Incubation of fetal bovine serum under standard cell cul ture conditions results in the formation of free entities in solution, here referred to as nanoforms. These nanoforms, when examined by transmission e lectron microscopy, have a distinct ovoid morphology ranging in size from t ens to hundreds of nanometers. They are composed of hydroxyapatite and prot eins and constitute a novel form of protein-associated mineralization. No d etectable cell structure resembling bacteria is apparent. However, immunode tection of the proteins associated with the nanoforms, by two specific mono clonal antibodies, suggests a possible biogenic origin. The significance of nanoforms for the recognition of biological activity in ancient geological systems is discussed. The mode of mineralization in nanoforms is also comp ared to matrix-mediated calcification in vertebrates. Copyright (C) 2001 El sevier Science Ltd.