Oil Palm Fibre Applications in Medical Sector: A Comprehensive Review

What is it about?

The text discusses the use of oil palm fiber (OPF) in the medical field, specifically in the biomedical branch. OPF, in the form of nanocellulose, has various applications such as drug delivery, tissue engineering, antimicrobial agent transporters, and wound care. The article reviews 24 articles published in English between 2012 and 2022, focusing on the mechanisms, functionalization, and applications of OPF in the medical domain. The use of OPF in drug delivery aims to control drug release rates, enhance solubility, and reduce clearance. The hydrophilic nature of OPF allows for high levels of drug storage, but challenges remain in preserving the material after alterations. Sulfonation can improve the crystallinity of OPF, enhancing its use in drug delivery systems. Other applications of OPF include tissue engineering, where it demonstrates potential for wound healing and bone tissue regeneration. OPF also shows promise as an antimicrobial agent carrier, and its use in wound dressings has shown improved healing outcomes. The article highlights the potential of OPF in the medical field and the need for further research to overcome existing challenges.

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Why is it important?

This research is important as it highlights the potential use of oil palm fiber (OPF) in various medical sectors, particularly in the biomedical branch. OPF, especially in nanocellulose form, has exceptional mechanical attributes, considerable surface area, versatility for surface functionalization, biocompatibility, and nontoxicity, making it a promising material for drug delivery, tissue engineering, wound dressing, and antimicrobial agent transporters. Key Takeaways: 1. OPF, especially in nanocellulose form, has exceptional mechanical attributes, considerable surface area, versatility for surface functionalization, biocompatibility, and nontoxicity, making it a promising material for various medical applications. 2. The OPF could be widely employed in the medical domain, particularly the biomedical branch, for drug delivery, tissue engineering, wound dressing, and antimicrobial agent transporters. 3. Limitations such as hydrophobicity, poor drug-loading characteristics, accumulation, and phase detachment from matrixes during manufacture due to the high surface energy require further investigation to optimize the potential of OPF.