Wayne,

As I understand it, conchiolin is a fibrous insoluble protein with several
different amino acids like glycine (often 50% of the total), phenylalanine,
and tyrosine.  This substance forms the organic basis or structure of the
shell by cementing together the calcium carbonate crystals (aragonite and
calcite) as well as forming the periostracum.  There is not necessarily much
conchiolin in a shell, but it is part of the matrix - not just the
periostracal layer and would thus provide some chance for DNA work.

Tom E.

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Conchologists of America List [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
> Behalf Of Wayne Harland
> Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 5:09 PM
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Re: DNA from a Shell?
>
>
> When I had originally asked the DNA question, I had heard in casual
> conversation that someone was actually trying to extract DNA from the
> calcareous portion of the shell.  Harry Lee responded with an excellent
> explanation of how possibly there could be enough genetic type material in
> the conchiolin layer of the shell.  I would expect that the possibility
> exists to extract material from dried out portions of animal
> matter left on
> the shell, but I was puzzled as to how DNA could be extracted from a
> completely empty shell which would be essentially a mineral compound.
>
> Wayne
>
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