TLDR The conclusion is that new methods for isolating hair cuticle cells and removing the cuticle layer are effective and convenient.
Researchers developed enzymatic methods to isolate and remove cuticle cells from human hair shafts. Using esperase for 3 days, cuticle cells were effectively harvested, while combining L-cysteine with esperase or savinase removed the entire cuticle layer within 4 hours. The isolated cuticle cells and descaled hair were analyzed, revealing that cuticle cells mainly contain β-sheets and random coil structures, and are more thermally stable below 260°C compared to descaled hair, which contains more α-helical structures. These methods are convenient, easily controlled, and useful for surface modification and structural disintegration of hair fibers.
27 citations,
May 2019 in “Cosmetics” The hair cuticle is made of tough proteins that protect the hair, but more research is needed to fully understand its structure.
9 citations,
July 2014 in “Skin research and technology” Stretching damages Caucasian hair's structure more easily than Asian hair.
254 citations,
January 2007 in “Chemical Society Reviews” Hair is a complex protein fiber with unique properties useful for developing hair products.
Keratin hydrogels from human hair show promise for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
The research found that people's hair proteins vary by individual and body part, with some differences between ethnic groups, which could help in forensics.
The research found that people's hair proteins vary, especially by ethnicity and body part, which could help identify individuals in forensic science.
68 citations,
August 2014 in “PeerJ” Human hair proteins vary by individual, body site, and ethnicity, useful for forensics.
13 citations,
January 2010 in “Advances in Biochemical Engineering / Biotechnology” Understanding hair biology is key to developing better treatments for hair and scalp issues.
