Abstract:

Phyco-oxyapatite, a novel form of hydroxyapatite (HAp), is derived from marine seaweed and holds immense potential in the fields of regenerative medicine and dentistry. Traditionally, HAp, a major component of bone and teeth, has been sourced from bovine bones. However, ethical concerns and the risk of disease transmission have prompted the exploration of alternative sources. Seaweed, particularly from the Indian coastal region, provides a sustainable and safer source of HAp. In this study, Halimeda sp., a calcareous seaweed, collected, processed, and chemically treated to extract phyco-oxyapatite. The material was characterized using SEM, EDS, FTIR, and XRD techniques to confirm its morphology and elemental composition. In vivo studies on zebrafish (Danio rerio) demonstrated that phyco-oxyapatite derived from seaweed significantly enhanced caudal fin regeneration compared to control. The von Kossa staining further confirmed enhanced mineralization in treated zebrafish. These results suggest that phyco-oxyapatite is a promising biomaterial for bone tissue engineering, offering superior regenerative capabilities compared to conventional sources of HAp. Future research should focus on the material’s application in clinical settings and its long-term performance in human bone regeneration. The study highlights the potential of seaweed-derived hydroxyapatite in transforming the landscape of biomaterials and regenerative medicine.

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