Blood cells make shells

Oysters do not pour the calcium carbonate necessary for the cokee of surface cells. In contrast, blood cells transport the mineral to the cokeel area.

To check this, biologists cut the shell of the Crassostrea virginica oyster. The oyster began to repair the wound and scientists, using an electronic microscope, identified blood cells attached to the calcium carbonate emerging in this process.

This result is important, especially since these blood cells also intervene in the immune system. This means that the process of making the shell in these molluscs may be related to resistance to various diseases. In addition, it is good news for the pearl industry, as it is essential to control the mineralization capacity of oysters.

Babesleak
Eusko Jaurlaritzako Industria, Merkataritza eta Turismo Saila