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Updated: May 28, 2026
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Synthesis of Keratin-based Nanofiber for Biomedical Engineering
Published on: February 7, 2016
Vasoactive properties of keratin-derived compounds
Fiesky Nunez1, Simon Trach, Luke Burnett
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston Salem, North Carolina 27157, USA.
Microcirculation (New York, N.Y. : 1994)
|October 8, 2011
Summary
Keratin resuscitation fluid (KRF) causes vasodilation via nitric oxide (NO) release, a finding isolated to the purified keratin-associated protein (KAP) fraction. This suggests potential for KAP in treating acute ischemic events.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Keratin proteins are established biomaterials with emerging applications in tissue regeneration and trauma care.
- Keratin derivatives (keratoses) exhibit favorable hemocompatibility, making them candidates for fluid resuscitation.
- Potential benefits include improved viscosity and oncotic properties during acute ischemic events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of keratose compounds on microvasculature.
- To assess the potential of keratin derivatives as fluid resuscitation agents.
- To elucidate the mechanism of action for observed vasodilatory effects.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an intravenous infusion model in rat cremaster muscle.
- Observed microvascular changes following administration of keratose resuscitation fluid (KRF).
- Investigated the role of nitric oxide (NO) by using l-NA (nitric oxide synthase inhibitor).
Main Results:
- KRF administration induced significant vasodilation in the cremaster muscle.
- The vasodilatory effect was abrogated by l-NA pretreatment, indicating NO mediation.
- Alpha-keratose, a primary viscosic fraction, did not induce vasodilation.
- The vasodilatory effect was specifically linked to the purified keratin-associated protein (KAP) fraction.
Conclusions:
- The vasodilation observed is mediated by nitric oxide (NO).
- The effect is attributable to a specific purified fraction, keratin-associated protein (KAP).
- KAP shows promise as a therapeutic agent for conditions involving acute ischemia.
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