SURVEY ON BIOMATERIAL SHRILK AS SUTURES IN MEDICAL FIELD

Shrilk stands as an innovative biomaterial, fusing the robustness of chitosan, a synthetic plastic, with the resilience of shrimp shells. The term "shrilk" itself is a blend of "shrimp" and "silk," emblematic of the distinctive attributes inherent in this material. Chitosan, derived from chitin present in the exoskeletons of crustaceans like shrimps and crabs, boasts biocompatibility, biodegradability, and antimicrobial qualities. Biopolymers have garnered increased attention owing to their remarkable attributes such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, and functionality. These characteristics position biopolymers as promising candidates for a wide range of surgical applications, including but not limited to bioadhesives, sealants, sutures, and wound dressings. Dubbed "shrilk" by its creators, Postdoctoral fellow Javier Fernandez and Wyss Institute director Donald Ingber, this substance mimics insect cuticle, a material found in insect exoskeletons. Shrilk serves as the synthetic equivalent to one of nature's most robust, lightweight, and intriguing materials. This article underscores the potential use of shrilk in surgical applications, particularly as sutures, considering its properties in comparison to currently employed sutures.