Compare the self-assembling pods formed by HA (right) with the acasia plant seed pods of the Hebrew Bible (left).
Structure for its own sake is interesting crystallographically, but it is the relationship
between molecular structure and shape on the one
hand and biological function and mechanical properties
on the other that is of more importance (taken from Atkins et al, Biochem. J. (1972) 128, 1255-1263). Cytoskeletal rearrangement is associated with HA binding to CD44 in intact cellular systems. Notice that the molecular shape of HA in a crystal matrix (within a salt/water matrix) looks a lot like the acasia tree thorns used in the Hebrew tabernacle construction, the Ark of the Covenant and to crown the crucified Christ.
Image:
Periodicity and order can be seen in the self-assembly process at the sub-micron level.
HA forms biocompatible carbohydrate scaffold for arteries and veins in the absence of the cell and DNA
Contact information:Email Dr. Ray Turner at MajorRay@MajorRay.com
