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Primary Endodermal Epithelial Cell Culture from the Yolk Sac Membrane of Japanese Quail Embryos

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Magnesium and phosphorus distribution in the avian eggshell.

M Cusack¹, A C Fraser, T Stachel

¹Division of Earth Sciences, Gregory Building, University of Glasgow, Lilybank Gardens, Glasgow, Scotland, UK. m.cusack@earthsci.gla.ac.uk

Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part B, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

|January 14, 2003

Summary

Avian eggshells reveal that magnesium and phosphorus are key inorganic components. Magnesium distribution in eggshells is complex, influenced by factors beyond just temperature, with older birds showing higher outer shell concentrations.

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Mechanical Separation and Protein Solubilization of the Outer and Inner Perivitelline Sublayers from Hen's Eggs

Mechanical Separation and Protein Solubilization of the Outer and Inner Perivitelline Sublayers from Hen's Eggs

Published on: January 27, 2021

Area of Science:

Geochemistry
Paleontology
Biomineralization

Background:

Magnesium and phosphorus are major inorganic constituents of avian eggshells.
The Mg/Ca ratio in calcite biominerals is utilized as a paleothermometer.
Avian eggshells offer a unique system to study Mg/Ca ratios in a constant temperature biomineralization environment.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the distribution and controlling factors of magnesium and phosphorus in avian eggshells.
To assess the utility of the eggshell Mg/Ca ratio as a reliable paleothermometer.
To understand variations in magnesium concentration related to bird age and shell deposition.

Main Methods:

Analysis of magnesium and phosphorus distribution throughout the avian eggshell.
Examination of Mg/Ca ratios in relation to shell structure and depositional stages.
Correlation analysis of magnesium concentration with organic content and bird age.

Main Results:

Magnesium distribution is not uniform, decreasing initially and then increasing towards the eggshell's termination.
Temperature of deposition is not the sole determinant of magnesium content in eggshells.
Older birds exhibit a greater increase in magnesium concentration in the outer eggshell regions.
Phosphorus is primarily found in the outer quarter of the eggshell, increasing towards termination.

Conclusions:

The Mg/Ca ratio in eggshells is influenced by multiple factors, limiting its sole use as a paleothermometer.
Magnesium concentration in eggshells is affected by depositional processes and potentially bird age.
Phosphorus distribution suggests it is not exclusively located in cuticular vesicles.