Keratin-containing scaffolds for tissue engineering applications: a review

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Bioactive materials are essential in tissue engineering for creating new organs and tissues.
• Porous three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds provide optimal conditions for cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and function.
• Keratin, derived from hair and wool, presents a biocompatible and biodegradable biomaterial platform.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the applications of keratin-based scaffolds in tissue engineering.
• To highlight the fabrication methods used for keratin scaffolds.
• To discuss the potential of keratin in regenerative medicine.

Main Methods:

• Extraction, purification, and characterization of keratin proteins.
• Fabrication of keratin scaffolds using electrospinning, freeze-drying, and sponge replication.
• Review of existing literature on keratin scaffold applications.

Main Results:

• Keratin scaffolds demonstrate biocompatibility, biodegradability, and intrinsic biological activity.
• Keratin's ability to self-assemble facilitates the creation of intricate 3D structures.
• Keratin scaffolds show promise for bone, skin, nerve, and vascular tissue regeneration.

Conclusions:

• Keratin-based biomaterials are highly attractive for tissue engineering scaffolds due to their inherent properties.
• Optimizing scaffold structure and surface characteristics can enhance cell adhesion and proliferation.
• Keratin scaffolds represent a versatile and effective material for diverse regenerative medicine applications.