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Keratin Biopolymer Dressings for Wound Care

Fetram Sigurjonson, Keratec Limited, VP Business Development, 1375 Springs Road, Lincoln, Canterbury, New Zealand, Rob Kelly, PhD, Keratec Limited, Research Manager, 1375 Springs Road, Lincoln, Canterbury, New Zealand, Robert Allen Smith, MD, Keraplast Technologies Ltd, Research Director, 19206 Huebner Road, San Antonio, TX, Azam Ali, PhD, Canesis Network Ltd, Scientist, Private Bag 4749, Christchurch, New Zealand, and Rob Mcpherson, PhD, School of Animal Studies, Lecturer, University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia.

Keratin protein is one of nature's most abundant materials, and the major component of the outermost layer of the skin. In a wound environment the keratinized layer of the skin is highly compromised. Biopolymers are well known to provide a favourable environment for wound healing, however, to date biopolymers derived from keratin protein have not been applied for the treatment of wounds. Substantial advances in keratin protein science have lead to the development of keratin protein biopolymer products suitable for application to a range of wound types. Cellular response to keratin biopolymers are very favourable when measured in vitro across a range of cell types important to the healing wound. In addition, animal trial data demonstrates accelerated healing for wounds treated with keratin dressings when compared to commercially available dressings.

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See more of The 38th Annual WOCN Society Conference (June 24 -- 28, 2006)