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Raoult D, Drancourt M, Azza S, Nappez C, Guieu R, et al. (2008) "Nanobacteria Are Mineralo
PLoS Pathogens 4(2): e41
doi:10.1371/journal.ppat.0040041
Abstract
"Nanobacteria" are nanometer-scale spherical and ovoid particles which have spurred one of
the biggest controversies in modern microbiology.
Their biological nature has been severely challenged by both geologists and microbiologists,
with opinions ranging from considering them crystal structures to new life forms. Although
the nature of these autonomously replicating particles is still under debate, their role in
several calcification-related diseases has been reported. In order to gain better insights on
this calciferous agent, we performed a large-scale project, including the analysis of
"nanobacteria" susceptibility to physical and chemical compounds as well as the
comprehensive nucleotide, biochemical, proteomic, and antigenic analysis of these
particles. Our results definitively ruled out the existence of "nanobacteria" as living
organisms and pointed out the paradoxical role of fetuin (an anti-mineralization protein) in
the formation of these self-propagating mineral complexes which we propose to call "nanons."
The presence of fetuin within renal calculi was also evidenced, suggesting its role as a
hydroxyapatite nucleating factor.
Full paper:
http://www.plospathogens.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.ppat.0040041
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