Introduction and oxidation of catechols during the formation of the skate (Raja erinacea) egg capsule

Tanning of theRaja erinaceaegg capsule occurs after secretion of capsule precursors from the nidamental gland and involves the introduction of catechols and their subsequent oxidation to quinones by catechol oxidase. At the time of secretion and assembly of capsular precursors in the nidamental gland, the capsule is white, contains no catechols and lacks chemical and mechanical stability. Following formation in the nidamental gland, catechols accumulatein uteroin parallel with colour development. An inactive form of catechol oxidase is incorporated in the capsular matrix at the time of secretion. Catechol oxidase activity increases concomitantly with increasing catechol content and colour development.