title: Protein constituents of the eggshell: eggshell-specific matrix proteins.
abstract: In this article, we review the results of recent proteomic and genomic analyses of eggshell matrix proteins and draw attention to the impact of these data on current understanding of eggshell formation and function. Eggshell-specific matrix proteins from avian (ovocleidins and ovocalyxins) and non-avian (paleovaterin) shells are discussed. Two possible roles for eggshell-specific matrix proteins have been proposed; both reflect the protective function of the eggshell in avian reproduction: regulation of eggshell mineralization and antimicrobial defense. An emerging concept is the dual role (mineralization/antimicrobial protection) that certain eggshell matrix proteins can play.
authors.affiliation: Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H8M5, Canada.
authors.forename: Megan L H
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Rose
authors.forename: Maxwell T
authors.initials: MT
authors.lastname: Hincke
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D030161:Avian Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology*; D002642:Chick Embryo; D002645:Chickens / Q000378:metabolism*; D004527:Egg Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology*; D004528:Egg Shell / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D046369:Finches / Q000378:metabolism; D030162:Reptilian Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D014426:Turtles / Q000196:embryology / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D030161:Avian Proteins; D004527:Egg Proteins; D030162:Reptilian Proteins; C015753:chorion proteins