Keratin Biomaterials for Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration: A Promising Approach in Biomedical Applications

Keratin biomaterials are promising for wound healing and tissue regeneration due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to promote cell growth. Preclinical studies have shown their effectiveness in enhancing wound closure, reducing bacterial infections, and promoting tissue regeneration, particularly in chronic wounds like diabetic ulcers. Keratin-based hydrogels and dressings, especially those loaded with antimicrobial peptides or growth factors, improve wound healing metrics such as reepithelialization and collagen deposition. Despite these promising results, large-scale clinical trials are necessary to confirm their therapeutic efficacy and translate these findings into practical applications for patient care.