SOCED 1 |
| Biopolymers, or macromolecules found in nature, play a number of important and varied roles in living organisms, including serving as structural materials, assisting in growth and reproduction, providing energy storage, fighting harmful bacteria and maintaining genetic information. Natural macromolecules include proteins, polysaccharides, nucleic acids and naturally occurring hydrocarbons such as natural rubber. As their structure and function in nature are increasingly understood, there is increasing interest in utilizing biopolymers and synthetic polymers modeled on natural macromolecules for applications such as biomedical devices, health and cosmetic products. In this talk, advances in biopolymers and their synthetic analogues for use in medical and personal care applications will be reviewed. Examples include hyaluronic acid, a primary component in synovial fluid providing lubricity in joints, hydrophobin fungal proteins, which provide surface modification, and keratin proteins, the major fibrous proteins in hair and wool that provide biocompatibility and wound healing capability. |
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Undergraduate Polymer Science Symposium
10:30 AM-12:00 PM, Sunday, August 19, 2007 Westin Copley Place -- St. George A/B, Oral
Society Committee on Education |