Marine Biomaterials

Book excerpt: Oceans are an abundant source of diverse biomaterials with potential for an array of uses. Marine Biomaterials: Characterization, Isolation and Applications brings together the wide range of research in this important area, including the latest developments and applications, from preliminary research to clinical trials. The book is divided into four parts, with chapters written by experts from around the world. Biomaterials described come from a variety of marine sources, such as fish, algae, microorganisms, crustaceans, and mollusks. Part I covers the isolation and characterization of marine biomaterials—bioceramics, biopolymers, fatty acids, toxins and pigments, nanoparticles, and adhesive materials. It also describes problems that may be encountered in the process as well as possible solutions. Part II looks at biological activities of marine biomaterials, including polysaccharides, biotoxins, and peptides. Chapters examine health benefits of the biomaterials, such as antiviral activity, antidiabetic properties, anticoagulant and anti-allergic effects, and more. Part III discusses biomedical applications of marine biomaterials, including nanocomposites, and describes applications of various materials in tissue engineering and drug delivery. Part IV explores commercialization of marine-derived biomaterials—marine polysaccharides and marine enzymes—and examines industry perspectives and applications. This book covers the key aspects of available marine biomaterials for biological and biomedical applications, and presents techniques that can be used for future isolation of novel materials from marine sources.