Biomineralization
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
The course aims to provide knowledge on the origin and evolution of the processes of biomineralization. The students will be taught the microstructures of the biominerals that form the exoskeletons of the main invertebrate groups and their fossil record. The relationships between these processes and the climatic and geodynamic evolution of our planet will also be analyzed.
Expected learning outcomes
The student will be able to analyze and identify the microstructures of the skeletal parts of the main invertebrate groups. He will also be able to understand the mechanisms of evolution of the biomineralization processes and their relations with the chemical-physical environment and the biotic components.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
BIOMINERALIZATION: the process by which organisms form hybrid compounds of minerals and biopolymers. The resulting biocomposite is a low-cost material with exceptional mechanical, optical, and magnetic properties.
Definition and introduction to the study of biomineralization.
Types of biominerals and the organisms that produce them.
Models of biomineralization: organomineralization and biologically controlled mineralization.
Origin and evolution of biomineralization.
General principles of biomineralization.
Functions and properties of biominerals.
Bacterial biomineralization.
Biomineralization in protists.
Biomineralization in corals.
Biomineralization in brachiopods.
Biomineralization in mollusks.
Biomineralization in echinoderms.
Overview of biomineralization in vertebrates.
Definition and introduction to the study of biomineralization.
Types of biominerals and the organisms that produce them.
Models of biomineralization: organomineralization and biologically controlled mineralization.
Origin and evolution of biomineralization.
General principles of biomineralization.
Functions and properties of biominerals.
Bacterial biomineralization.
Biomineralization in protists.
Biomineralization in corals.
Biomineralization in brachiopods.
Biomineralization in mollusks.
Biomineralization in echinoderms.
Overview of biomineralization in vertebrates.
Prerequisites for admission
Fundaments of paleontology
Teaching methods
New teaching methods:
Theoretical lectures
Flipped classroom
Seminars
Laboratory activities
Theoretical lectures
Flipped classroom
Seminars
Laboratory activities
Teaching Resources
Biomineralization Cell biology and Mineral Deposition
Simkiss & Wilbur 1989
Biomineralization Principles and Concepts in bioinorganic Materials
Mann 2001
Biomineralization
Reviews in Mineralogy and Geochemistry, v. 54
Dove, De Yoreo & Wiener 2003
Biominerals and Fossils Through Time
Cuif, Dauphin & Sorauf 2011
Slides in Ariel
Simkiss & Wilbur 1989
Biomineralization Principles and Concepts in bioinorganic Materials
Mann 2001
Biomineralization
Reviews in Mineralogy and Geochemistry, v. 54
Dove, De Yoreo & Wiener 2003
Biominerals and Fossils Through Time
Cuif, Dauphin & Sorauf 2011
Slides in Ariel
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam will consist of a written test and will include open-ended questions.
For students participating in the flipped classroom, the presentation will be subject to evaluation and will contribute to the final grade.
Evaluation criteria: understanding, accuracy, appropriateness of language, and ability to apply the acquired knowledge on the principles of biomineralization.
Grading system: score out of thirty.
The results will be published on SIFA.
For students participating in the flipped classroom, the presentation will be subject to evaluation and will contribute to the final grade.
Evaluation criteria: understanding, accuracy, appropriateness of language, and ability to apply the acquired knowledge on the principles of biomineralization.
Grading system: score out of thirty.
The results will be published on SIFA.
GEO/01 - PALEONTOLOGY AND PALEOECOLOGY - University credits: 6
Practicals with elements of theory: 12 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Professors:
Angiolini Lucia, Crippa Gaia
Professor(s)
Reception:
Monday 15.30
Department of Earth Sciences "Ardito Desio" or by email.