Amniotic membranes in both horses and cattle may provide the strong scaffolding materials needed during human surgery, reports HorseTalk. The amnion is a membrane that contains trophoblasts, mesenchymal cells, and collagen; it makes up the innermost part of the placenta and is commonly called the birth sac or fetal membrane.
This strong, flexible membrane surrounds and supports the fetus during development. It also delivers nutrients and removes excretion.
Dr. Hannah Wells, of Massey University in New Zealand, assessed the strength and structure of the amnion by collecting the equine amniotic membrane once the mare had given birth. The tissue contained crimped collagen fibers that provided elasticity.
Study results showed that equine amnions were strong, thin, and elastic, with a higher tensile strength than human amniotic membrane.
The research team concludes that equine amniotic membranes may be able to be used in human surgery as an alternative to amniotic membranes from human donors.
Read the study here.
Read more at HorseTalk.
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