Human Hair Keratin Hydrogel: Fabrication, Characterization, and Application
January 2014
keratin hydrogel human hair 2D cell culture 3D cell culture soluble proteins CaCl₂ citrate buffer L929 cell proliferation collagen hydrogels biocompatibility cell viability cell attachment low immunogenicity subcutaneous transplantation tissue engineering regenerative medicine keratin calcium chloride collagen
TLDR Keratin hydrogels from human hair show promise for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
The study developed keratin-based hydrogels from human hair for 2D and 3D cell culture applications, yielding 24 ±1% soluble proteins. These hydrogels, induced by CaCl₂ or citrate buffer, supported L929 cell proliferation at 76% of the rate on collagen hydrogels and showed promising biocompatibility in vitro and in vivo. The hydrogels maintained cell viability, supported cell attachment, and exhibited low immunogenicity in subcutaneous transplantation models. The study highlighted the potential of keratin hydrogels for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, though further research was recommended to enhance mechanical strength and ensure safety.
