Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation in Nucleation Process of Biomineralization

Biomineralization is a typical interdisciplinary subject attracting biologists, chemists, and geologists to figure out its potential mechanism. A mounting number of studies have revealed that the classical nucleation theory is not suitable for all nucleation process of biominerals, and phase-separated structures such as polymer-induced liquid precursors (PILPs) play essential roles in the non-classical nucleation processes. These structures are able to play diverse roles biologically or pathologically, and could also give inspiring clues to bionic applications. However, a lot of confusion and dispute occurred due to the intricacy and interdisciplinary nature of liquid precursors. Researchers in different fields may have different opinions because the terminology and current state of understanding is not common knowledge. As a result, our team reviewed the most recent articles focusing on the nucleation processes of various biominerals to clarify the state-of-the-art understanding of some essential concepts and guide the newcomers to enter this intricate but charming field.

Automated summary

Biomineralization is a interdisciplinary subject attracting biologists, chemists, and geologists who are interested in understanding its mechanism. Recent studies have shown that the classical nucleation theory is not suitable for all biomineral nucleation processes, and phase-separated structures, such as polymer-induced liquid precursors (PILPs), play important roles in non-classical nucleation processes. However, due to the complexity and interdisciplinary nature of liquid precursors, confusion and disputes have arisen. Therefore, our team reviewed recent articles to clarify essential concepts and guide newcomers in this field.