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Reduced Keratin-Based Bioadhesives for Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Sealing around Transcutaneous Metallic Prostheses
Sangeeta Shrivas1, Harshita Samaur1, Parul Yadav1
1Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Khandwa Road, Simrol, Indore 453552, Madhya Pradesh, India.
ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering
|November 4, 2025
Summary
New keratin-based bioglues, derived from human hair and chicken feathers, show promise for sealing skin around metallic implants. These polyphenol-enhanced glues improve healing and reduce inflammation, potentially preventing peri-implantitis.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Wound Healing
Background:
- Percutaneous metallic implants can lead to peri-implantitis due to poor soft tissue sealing and microbial entry.
- Existing sealing methods may not adequately address the foreign body reaction and epithelial downgrowth.
- Developing effective biomaterials for peri-implant soft tissue sealing is crucial for preventing complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate novel bioglue formulations based on keratin and polyphenols for peri-implant soft tissue sealing.
- To assess the adhesion strength, rheological properties, skin compatibility, and anti-inflammatory potential of these bioglues.
- To investigate the efficacy of these glues in mitigating issues associated with transcutaneous metallic prostheses.
Main Methods:
- Keratin bioglues were formulated using human hair keratin (HHK) and chicken feather keratin, combined with polyphenols (dopamine, quercetin, tannic acid).
- Freeze-thaw gelation via thiol recombination was used for soft tissue (porcine intestine) to titanium attachment.
- Lap shear tests, rheological characterization, cell viability assays (HaCaT, E. Derm NBL6), and anti-inflammatory assessments in RAW 264.7 macrophages were performed.
Main Results:
- Keratin glues with polyphenol addition showed improved adhesion strength, with HHK + tannic acid (10:1 w/w) exhibiting maximal strength.
- The glues demonstrated shear-thinning behavior and injectability into wet and dry conditions.
- While weaker than cyanoacrylate bioglue, keratin glues exhibited superior skin compatibility and significant anti-inflammatory activity.
Conclusions:
- Keratin ± polyphenol bioglues offer a promising alternative for soft tissue sealing around transcutaneous implants.
- These formulations enhance skin compatibility and possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing peri-implantitis.
- Further research into these biomaterials could lead to improved outcomes for patients with metallic prostheses.
