Unlike mammalian skin grafts, there is no risk of disease transfer between cold-water fish and humans
Kerecis, a Norwegian fish research company, is experimenting with using fish skin to regenerate human skin and heal wounds.
The company's flagship product, Kerecis Omega3 Wound, is cod skin which, when grafted onto damaged human tissue, activates the body's cells, prevents infections, and is eventually converted into living tissue.
Fertram Sigurjonsson, founder and CEO of Kerecis, started the company because he wanted to help people regenerate their skin and avoid amputation. These are often the consequences of wounds that are difficult to heal and end up becoming infected.
Unlike skin grafts from other mammals, there is no risk of rejection or transfer of disease between freshwater fish and humans.
Fish skin is also naturally rich in Omega3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which help by reducing inflammation and even pain.
Kerecis Omega3 Fish Skin, derived from MSC-certified cod, is currently used in several ways to treat wounds, burns, hernia repairs and other surgeries. The company has a range of products it plans to submit for FDA approval, with one also in development for breast reconstruction.
Additionally, the company is studying a variant of Kerecis Omega3 fish skin for the reconstruction of the dura mater, a skin-like membrane that covers and protects the brain and spinal cord.
From just one cod Kerecis can produce eight “skin units”. Each unit sells for around € 420. Yes, you got it right: from a cod you can get € 3.390.
Fish skin used to regenerate human skin can also be stored at room temperature. And for a maximum of three years. Then it can be hydrated 30-60 seconds before use.
