Silk Protein-Mediated Biomineralization: From Bioinspired Strategies and Advanced Functions to Biomedical Applications

Biomineralization refers to the process through whichmineralsnucleate in a structured manner to form specific crystal structuresby the regulating of biomacromolecules. Biomineralization occurs inbones and teeth within the human body, where collagen acts as a templatefor the nucleation of hydroxyapatite (HA) crystals. Similar to collagen,silk proteins spun by silkworms can also serve as templates for thenucleation and growth of inorganic substances at interfaces. By enablingthe binding of silk proteins to inorganic minerals, the process ofbiomineralization enhances the properties of silk-based materialsand broadens their potential applications, rendering them highly promisingfor use in biomedical applications. In recent years, the developmentof biomineralized materials using silk proteins has garnered considerableattention in the biomedical field. This comprehensive review outlinesthe mechanism of biomineral formation mediated by silk proteins, aswell as various biomineralization methods used to prepare silk-basedbiomineralized materials (SBBMs). Additionally, we discuss the physicochemicalproperties and biological functions of SBBMs, and their potentialapplications in various fields such as bioimaging, cancer therapy,antibacterial treatments, tissue engineering, and drug delivery. Inconclusion, this review highlights the significant role that SBBMscan play in the biomedical field.

Automated summary

Biomineralization is a process in which minerals nucleate and form specific crystal structures by regulating biomacromolecules. It occurs in bones and teeth, where collagen acts as a template for hydroxyapatite crystals. Silk proteins can also serve as templates for inorganic substances. Biomineralization enhances the properties of silk-based materials and has promising biomedical applications.