TILAPIA SKIN IN VETERINARY TISSUE REPAIR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18817/repesca.v17i1.4640Keywords:
biomaterials; xenografts; type I collagen; wound healing; regenerative medicineAbstract
This narrative review evaluated Nile tilapia skin as a biomaterial for veterinary tissue repair and the strength of the available evidence. Searches in PubMed, SciELO, BVS/BVS-Vet, Google Scholar, Brazilian journal portals and REPESCA were updated and closed on June 2026. Original studies and methodologically described reviews published mainly from 2015 onward were included and classified by design and directness. Tilapia skin presents a type I collagen-rich extracellular matrix, mechanical resistance and adherence, and can be processed as glycerolized, lyophilized or acellular material. Comparative studies in dogs and donkeys support wound contraction and epithelialization, but most veterinary evidence still consists of case reports and small series. Potential reductions in dressing changes, handling and costs remain plausible rather than established. Standardized processing, microbiological control, controlled clinical trials, long-term follow-up and cost-effectiveness analyses are required before routine use.
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