Evidence for a liquid-crystal precursor involved in the formation of the crossed-lamellar microstructure of the mollusc shell.

Many biological structures use liquid crystals as self-organizing templates for their formation. We review and analyse evidence that the crossed-lamellar biomineral microstructure of mollusc shells may be formed from such a liquid-crystal precursor. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Many biological structures use liquid crystals as self-organizing templates for their formation. We review and analyse evidence that the crossed-lamellar biomineral microstructure of mollusc shells may be formed from such a liquid-crystal precursor.