Sheep Wool Keratin Regenerates Bone in Animal Models

Scientists have developed a bone-repair material from sheep's wool that successfully regenerated damaged bone in animal models. The material, derived from keratin, produced new tissue that was more organized and structurally similar to natural bone compared to conventional collagen scaffolds. This discovery could transform an agricultural byproduct into a valuable resource for regenerative medicine.

Researchers at King's College London extracted keratin, a natural structural protein, from wool. They then created membranes from this keratin. These membranes were chemically treated to enhance their stability and durability.

Initial laboratory tests showed human bone cells growing effectively on the keratin material. The cells also displayed clear indicators of healthy bone formation. The team then implanted the keratin membranes into rats with skull defects. These defects were too large to heal naturally.

Over several weeks, the keratin scaffolds supported new bone growth across the damaged areas. While collagen membranes generated a greater quantity of bone, the bone formed with keratin scaffolds was more organized. Its fibers were better aligned, making the new tissue closely resemble natural, healthy bone. The keratin membranes also remained stable and integrated well with surrounding tissue during the healing process.

Collagen has been the standard material for regenerative medicine scaffolds for decades. However, collagen can be weak and may degrade too quickly. Its extraction can also be complex and costly. Wool-based keratin offers a sustainable alternative. It is a naturally derived material often discarded as agricultural waste. This makes it a renewable and scalable resource.