Carbonic Anhydrase in the Calcification of the Egg Shell

Abstract

THE purpose of this investigation was to throw more light on the role of carbonic anhydrase in the mechanism of eggshell formation, which still remains unexplained The calcium metabolism of the hen in relation to egg formation was reviewed by Gutowska et al. (1943) in a previous paper, where also was discussed the relation of alkaline phosphatase to eggshell formation. It was concluded that the deposition of calcium in the eggshell is independent of local phosphatase activity in the shell gland of the hen. If a transformation of the colloid calcium and phosphorus containing protein is necessary for the liberation of calcium, for shell formation, the place of this transformation remains obscure. The theory was supported that during shell formation calcium is transferred directly from the blood, and in the eggshell it is found in the form of calcium carbonate. It is obvious therefore that the carbonate radical is obtained . . .