Physico-chemical properties of crystal surfaces in matrix–mineral interactions during mammalian biomineralisation

Surfaces of developing enamel crystals were shown to comprise of alternating domains of positive and less positive (perhaps even negative) charge density which directly bind a number of matrix proteins via electrostatic interactions. Studies using synthetic mineral crystals demonstrated stereo-specific docking of charged residues with crystal lattice sites. Preferential binding of matrix proteins to specific crystal faces related to interfacial hydrophobicity/hydrophobicity, was shown to control crystal habit.