In Vitro Biodegradation of Hair from Different Animal Species by Microsporum Canis

    January 1997 in “ International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation ”
    K Wawrzkiewicz, Grażyna Ziółkowska, J Wawrzkiewicz
    TLDR Microsporum canis breaks down animal hair fastest in sheep and foxes, slowest in humans.
    The study investigated the biodegradation of hair from various animal species by the fungus Microsporum canis. It was found that M. canis grew most rapidly on hair from guinea pigs, foxes, and sheep, and more slowly on cat and dog hair. After 30 days, the most significant hair destruction was observed in sheep and silver fox hair, while human hair was the most resistant, showing changes only after 65 days. The age of the animals influenced the rate of hair decomposition, with younger animals' hair degrading faster. The study suggested that the proteolytic enzymes of M. canis played a crucial role in breaking down hair keratin.
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