Keratin-PNIPAM Hybrid Microgels: Preparation, Morphology and Swelling Properties.

ABSTRACT: Combinations of synthetic polymers, such as poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), with natural biomolecules, such as keratin, show potential in the field of biomedicine, since these hybrids merge the thermoresponsive properties of PNIPAM with the bioactive characteristics of keratin. This synergy aims to produce hybrids that can respond to environmental stimuli while maintaining biocompatibility and functionality, making them suitable for various medical and biotechnological uses. In this study, we exploit keratin derived from wool waste in the textile industry, extracted via sulfitolysis, to synthesize hybrids with PNIPAM microgel. Utilizing two distinct methods-polymerization of NIPAM with keratin (HYB-P) and mixing preformed PNIPAM microgels with keratin (HYB-M)-resulted in hybrids with

SUBMITTER: Buratti E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11202486 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature