Abstract
Advances in the extraction, purification, and characterization of keratin proteins from hair and wool fibers over the past century have led to the development of a keratin-based biomaterials platform. Like many naturally-derived biomolecules, keratins have intrinsic biological activity and biocompatibility. In addition, extracted keratins are capable of forming self-assembled structures that regulate cellular recognition and behavior. These qualities have led to the development of keratin biomaterials with applications in wound healing, drug delivery, tissue engineering, trauma and medical devices. This review discusses the history of keratin research and the advancement of keratin biomaterials for biomedical applications.
Highlights
One of the primary goals of biomaterials research is the development of a matrix or scaffolding system that mimics the structure and function of native tissue
This review focuses on the history of keratin research and the development of keratin-based biomaterials for biomedical applications
The authors concluded that these results showed that keratin-based scaffolds made from human hair can facilitate peripheral nerve regeneration and promote neuromuscular recovery that is equivalent to the gold standard, sensory nerve autografts [74]
Summary
One of the primary goals of biomaterials research is the development of a matrix or scaffolding system that mimics the structure and function of native tissue For this purpose, many researchers have explored the use of natural macromolecules due to their intrinsic ability to perform very specific biochemical, mechanical and structural roles. Protein-based biomaterials have emerged as potential candidates for many biomedical and biotechnological applications due their ability to function as a synthetic extracellular matrix that facilitates cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Such substrates contain a defined, three-dimensional microstructure that supports cellular proliferation and Materials 2010, 3 cell-guided tissue formation, both of which are important characteristics for biomaterial scaffolds. A brief review of keratin biology is discussed with an emphasis on how the proteins are developed within the hair fiber
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