Keratin is the main component of wool

feathers

nail

and other epithelial coverings. This review focuses on the keratin extraction and promising applications on the biomedical field. The typical chemical methods based on acid-based hydrolysis

reduction and oxidation are summarized. As a natural biomacromolecule

keratin has good bioactivity

biocompatibility

biodegradation

mechanical property

and natural abundance. Keratin-based biomaterials have emerged as potential candidates for many biomedical applications.