Fiber Analysis Methods and Future Perspectives in Small Ruminant Farming
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64614/vzs-29Keywords:
Keratin, small animal fibers, molecular analysis, mohair, woolAbstract
Natural fibers obtained from sheep farming (wool, mohair, hair, and cashmere) constitute a significant resource for the textile-based production industry and biotechnological potential in Turkey and globally. Traditionally used as raw materials for the textile industry, these fibers now have a wide range of applications, from biomedical materials to nanocomposite production, from cosmetic formulations to functional foods, thanks to developing analysis technologies and interdisciplinary approaches. In this study, the analysis methods used on sheep fibers are classified under three main headings: physical, chemical, and molecular. Physical analyses cover the fundamental determinants of textile quality, such as fiber diameter, length, elasticity and strength, crimp structure, and luster. Chemical analyses reveal the amino acid composition, elemental content, thermal behavior, and molecular structure of keratin, the primary structure of fibers. Molecular analyses have gained significant importance in animal fiber research. While research in Turkey has primarily focused on physical and chemical analyses, genetic diversity analyses, breed-based quality maps, and molecular studies on follicle biology have increased in recent years. In the world literature, analysis methods are often addressed within an interdisciplinary framework, focusing on areas such as nanocomposite production, tissue engineering applications, bioplastic development, keratin-based wound dressings, hydrogels, and biodegradable composites. The use of hydrolyzed keratin peptides in functional foods and nutritional supplements is also a significant development. This review generally describes traditional and modern methods used in the analysis of small ruminant fibers and attempts to provide a roadmap for interdisciplinary research. Turkey's rich small ruminant resources hold great potential for innovative approaches to fiber analysis.
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