Volume 4 focuses on the vibrant research area centering around "Biomineralization" and its role in Nature and in biomimetic applications. With nearly 2700 references, 14 tables, and more than 140 illustrations, it is an essential resource for scientists working in the wide range from material sciences and inorganic biochemistry all the way through to medicine including the clinic.

In 18 stimulating chapters, written by 36 internationally recognized experts, "Biomineralization. From Nature to Application" highlights critically the interrelations between crystals and life. The volume covers the role of genes and genomes as well as enzymes on biomineralization processes; carbonate, sulfate, oxalate, and silicate biominerals; heavy metals, ferritin, and magnetotactic bacteria; the formation of bone, dentin, enamel, etc; the dynamics of biomineralization and biodemineralization; the mechanical design and bioinspired growth of mineralized tissues; and polymer-controlled biomimetic mineralizations for diverse applications.