Nile Tilapia Fish Skin, Scales, and Spine as Naturally Derived Biomaterials for Tissue Regeneration

Abstract

This study aims to review the literature on the use of Nile tilapia-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins as naturally derived scaffold material for tissue regeneration. Nile tilapia has emerged as a particularly relevant specie for the development of fish-derived biomaterials. The skin, scale, and spine of various fish species have been extensively demonstrated as a potential source of native ECM proteins for use in regenerative medicine. When compared to synthetic polymers, collagen-based biomaterials introduce some disadvantages due to their lower biomechanical stiffness and rapid biodegradation. However, collagen-based biomaterials continue to be one of the most highly investigated natural materials for bone regeneration. Studies have pointed to tilapia as a satisfactory source of collagen for its quality and cost benefit, with good responses in vitro and in vivo, especially studies involving the skin as the main source of production. For both soft and hard tissue regenerations, Nile tilapia skin is being considered as a good source of collagen. Other sources (scales and spine) are less addressed in comparison to skin, which in turn, brings more consistent perspective in relation to clinical use.