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Hierarchical Micro-/Nanostructures from Human Hair for Biomedical Applications
Di-Wei Zheng1, Sheng Hong1, Lu Xu1
1Key Laboratory of Biomedical Polymers of Ministry of Education & Department of Chemistry, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, P. R. China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|May 22, 2018
Summary
Human hair is transformed into biocompatible micro- and nanoparticles (HMP and HNP) for biomedical applications. These versatile materials show potential in drug delivery, UV protection, and cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- The demand for biocompatible and functional materials is increasing in biomedical engineering.
- Nature's hierarchical structures offer inspiration for designing high-performance materials.
- Human hair's micro-/nanostructures provide a novel source for advanced biomaterials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore hierarchical micro-/nanostructures of human hair for biomedical applications.
- To develop hierarchical microparticles (HMP) and nanoparticles (HNP) from human hair.
- To evaluate the biocompatibility, functionality, and therapeutic potential of HMP and HNP.
Main Methods:
- Top-down procedures were used to process human hair into HMP and HNP.
- Hemocompatibility and immunogenicity were assessed and compared to commercial carriers.
- In vitro and in vivo studies were conducted to evaluate UV protection, cataract relief, photothermal conversion, thrombosis treatment, and antineoplastic effects.
Main Results:
- HMP and HNP demonstrated high hemocompatibility and negligible immunogenicity.
- These materials effectively protected skin from UV damage and relieved cataract symptoms in vitro.
- Warfarin-loaded HMP successfully treated vein thrombosis in mice, and aptamer-modified HNP suppressed tumor growth by 96.8% in vivo.
Conclusions:
- Hierarchical microparticles and nanoparticles derived from human hair are promising multifunctional biomaterials.
- These materials offer high biocompatibility and versatile applications in drug delivery, photothermal therapy, and cancer treatment.
- Human hair-derived materials represent a novel and effective tool for addressing diverse biomedical challenges.
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