TLDR Human hair proteins can be used to create scaffolds that support cell growth for tissue engineering.
The study focused on using human hair proteins to create scaffolds for tissue-engineering applications. These proteins were tested for cellular compatibility using NIH3T3 mice fibroblast cells. Characterization techniques revealed keratin molecular weights of 40-60 kDa and matrix proteins of 15-30 kDa, with keratin pIs between 4.5-5.3. The proteins formed sponges through lyophilization, and their hydrophilic nature was confirmed with a contact angle of 37 degrees. The protein-coated surfaces supported enhanced cell growth and three-dimensional morphology, indicating their potential as scaffolds due to improved cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions.
309 citations
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October 2007 in “Biomaterials” Keratin from human hair helps nerves heal faster.
203 citations
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June 2003 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Human hair, despite its different types, shares common traits that affect its structure and response to treatments.
226 citations
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January 2002 in “Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin” A new method quickly extracts and identifies proteins from hair and other keratin sources.
2 citations
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November 1996 in “PubMed” Most people have similar hair protein patterns, but a rare variant was found in two women.
10 citations
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January 1989 in “Archives of Dermatological Research” The method effectively analyzes human hair proteins, especially nonfilamentous ones.
Keratin hydrogels from human hair show promise for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
2 citations
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May 2023 in “Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology” The document concludes that more research is needed on making and understanding biomaterial scaffolds for wound healing.
43 citations
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July 2019 in “Stem Cells International” Advancements in creating skin grafts with biomaterials and stem cells are promising, but more research is needed for clinical application.
January 2025 in “Burns & Trauma” Titanium dioxide nanoparticles can help heal wounds faster and better.
36 citations
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August 2022 in “Molecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids” Gene therapy shows promise for healing chronic wounds but needs more research to overcome challenges.
