10 citations
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January 2014 in “BioMed research international” Rat whisker cells can help turn other cells into nerve cells and might be used to treat brain injuries or diseases.
49 citations
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July 2000 in “Journal of Histochemistry & Cytochemistry” POMC-derived peptides are important for skin functions like immune response and stress management.
23 citations
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July 1993 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology” Certain chemicals and peptides can promote hair growth or prevent baldness.
3 citations
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September 2013 in “Bioscience Biotechnology and Biochemistry” Type II porcine hair keratin supports cell growth but hinders cell differentiation.
January 2016 in “Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology” The study presented a novel method for creating a sponge-like porous hydrogel from wool hair keratin, which was shown to be a promising substrate for cell culture. The keratin was extracted and formed into a hydrogel with a highly porous structure and fast-swelling properties. It demonstrated high mechanical strength and flexibility, making it suitable for use as a scaffold in tissue engineering. The hydrogel supported the attachment and growth of various animal cells, including PC12 cells, HOS cells, and murine embryonic fibroblasts, as observed through fluorescent microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Preliminary studies indicated potential applications in bone tissue engineering by culturing osteoblasts on the keratin hydrogel.