Natural biomaterials are materials derived from natural sources, such as plants, animals, or microorganisms, which exhibit properties and characteristics that make them suitable for various biomedical and biotechnological applications. These materials are often used in the field of regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, drug delivery, and other healthcare-related applications.

1. Natural Biomaterials
Professor: Abdimadiyeva A
Prepared by : Mohammad Hassan Hassand

2. Contents
• Introduction
• History
• Collagen
• Chitosan
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Cellulose
• Gelatin
• Silk
• Alginate
• Fibrin
• Keratin
• Lignin

3. Introduction
Natural biomaterials are materials derived from natural
sources, such as plants, animals, or microorganisms,
which exhibit properties and characteristics that make
them suitable for various biomedical and
biotechnological applications. These materials are often
used in the field of regenerative medicine, tissue
engineering, drug delivery, and other healthcare-related
applications.

4. History
Prehistoric Use: For thousands of years, humans have utilized natural biomaterials like
animal hides, bones, and plant fibers for clothing, tools, textiles, and basketry.
Antiquity: Ancient civilizations like Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans utilized natural
biomaterials like papyrus for writing and animal tendons and leather for various purposes.
Silk Production (4,000-5,000 years ago): Ancient civilizations like Egyptians, Greeks, and
Romans utilized natural biomaterials like papyrus for writing and animal tendons and leather
for various purposes.

5. Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body
and is a key component of connective tissues, such as
skin, bone, and cartilage. It is often used in tissue
engineering and wound healing applications.

6. Chitosan
Chitosan is derived from chitin, a natural polymer found in the shells of
crustaceans like shrimp and crabs. It has antimicrobial properties and is used in
wound dressings, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.

7. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a natural polymer found in the
body, particularly in the joints and skin. It is used
in skincare products, wound healing, and as a
filler in cosmetic procedures.

8. Cellulose
Chitosan is derived from chitin, a natural polymer found in the shells of
crustaceans like shrimp and crabs. It has antimicrobial properties and is used in
wound dressings, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.

9. Gelatin
Gelatin is derived from collagen and is often
used in pharmaceuticals, food products, and as a
coating for drug capsules.

10. Silk
As mentioned earlier, silk is a natural biomaterial produced by
silkworms and spiders. It is used in sutures, tissue engineering, and
drug delivery systems.

11. Alginate
Alginate is derived from brown seaweed and is used in wound dressings, cell
encapsulation, and controlled drug release systems.

12. Fibrin
Fibrin is a protein involved in blood clotting, and it can be used as a
sealant in surgical procedures and in tissue engineering.

13. Keratin
Keratin is a protein found in hair, nails, and the
outer layer of the skin. It is used in various
cosmetic and dermatological products.

14. Lignin
Lignin is a natural polymer found in plant cell walls. It is being explored for its
potential use in drug delivery and tissue engineering.

15. Aspect Advantages Disadvantages
Biocompatibility Well-tolerated by the human body. Risk of allergies or sensitivities in some cases.
Biodegradability Environmentally friendly, breaks down over time. May not match desired degradation rates.
Mimicking Tissues Closely mimic properties of native tissues.
Limited mechanical strength for certain
applications.
Ease of Modification Can be chemically or physically modified.
Variable properties based on source and
processing.
Abundant Availability Readily available from renewable sources. Limited scalability for some materials.
Low Toxicity Generally low toxicity and safe for medical use. Risk of contamination or disease transmission.
Consistency
Variable properties can make consistency
challenging.
Ethical and environmental concerns with some
sources.
Storage and Stability May require specific storage conditions. May have limited shelf life or stability.

16. Thank You