Human Hair Derived Keratins Mediate Schwann Cell Behavior In Vitro and Facilitate Rapid Peripheral Nerve Regeneration In Vivo

The study investigated the use of keratins derived from human hair as biomaterials for nerve regeneration. In vitro assays demonstrated that keratins enhanced Schwann cell proliferation, migration, and attachment. Keratins also self-assembled into fibrous, porous scaffolds conducive to cell infiltration and axonal growth. In vivo testing using a tibial nerve axotomy mouse model showed that keratin-filled conduits significantly improved nerve regeneration compared to empty controls and were comparable to autografts. The findings suggested that keratin hydrogels could effectively support neural tissue engineering and facilitate functional nerve regeneration by influencing Schwann cells.