Recent advances in keratin for biomedical applications.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Chemistry

Background:

• Keratin, a natural polymer, presents a sustainable resource for biomaterial development.
• Keratin-based biomaterials offer excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and hemostatic properties.
• These biomaterials exhibit inherent antibacterial, antioxidant, and multi-responsive characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the key properties of keratin-based biomaterials.
• To explore the diverse biomedical applications of keratin biomaterials.
• To provide insights for future research and development in this field.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on keratin biomaterials.
• Analysis of studies focusing on keratin extraction and characterization.
• Synthesis of information on applications in drug delivery, wound healing, and tissue engineering.

Main Results:

• Keratin biomaterials demonstrate a wide range of beneficial properties for medical use.
• Significant applications are found in drug delivery systems, promoting controlled release.
• Effective use in wound healing and tissue engineering due to regenerative potential.

Conclusions:

• Keratin biomaterials represent a promising, eco-friendly alternative in biomedical applications.
• Further research can unlock the full potential of keratin for advanced therapies.
• Harnessing keratin waste offers a pathway to sustainable and valuable medical solutions.