Hydroxyapatite extraction from fish scales of Tilapia

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Biomineralization
• Materials Science

Background:

• Hydroxyapatite is the primary inorganic component of human bone.
• Hydroxyapatite is crucial for bone regeneration and replacement therapies.
• Synthesized or naturally extracted hydroxyapatite can be utilized for bone biomaterials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the extraction of hydroxyapatite from fish scales of two different Tilapia species.
• To compare hydroxyapatite derived from Oreochromis hunteri (Mexico) and Oreochromis niloticus (Spain).
• To analyze the elemental composition of extracted hydroxyapatite, focusing on potential enrichment.

Main Methods:

• Fish scales from Oreochromis hunteri and Oreochromis niloticus were collected.
• Hydroxyapatite was extracted from the fish scales using a chemical process.
• Elemental analysis was performed on the extracted hydroxyapatite samples.

Main Results:

• Hydroxyapatite was successfully extracted from the scales of both fish species.
• Hydroxyapatite from Mexican Oreochromis hunteri showed enrichment in magnesium.
• Hydroxyapatite from Spanish Oreochromis niloticus exhibited enrichment in aluminum.

Conclusions:

• Fish scales represent a viable source for hydroxyapatite extraction.
• The elemental composition of extracted hydroxyapatite can vary based on fish species and origin.
• This study highlights the potential of tilapia fish scales as a source for tailored hydroxyapatite biomaterials.