Fabrication of Zein‐Based Fibrous Scaffolds for Biomedical Applications—A Review

Abstract

Zein, which accounts for around 80% of the total protein composition in corn, is a biocompatible and biodegradable substance derived from renewable sources. Although insoluble in water, its amphiphilic characteristics are utilized to generate nanoparticles, nanofibers, microparticles, and even films. Numerous recent studies have demonstrated the potential of zein as a prospective biomaterial to develop fibrous scaffolds for biomedical functions owing to its biocompatibility, fibrous formation, and encapsulating qualities. Fabrication of zein‐based fibrous scaffolds for biomedical applications is achieved by a wide variety of techniques, including electrospinning, wet spinning, freeze drying, and additive manufacturing. This article overviews current advancements in manufacturing techniques for zein‐based fibrous scaffolds. In addition, it summarizes the most recent biomedical applications and research activities utilizing zein‐based fibrous scaffolds. Overall, zein is proposed as a potential biomaterial for the production of fibrous scaffolds that stimulate cell adhesion and proliferation in a number of exciting biomedical applications due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and other unique features related to its structure.

The silibinin-loaded Zein-β cyclodextrin nano-carriers (SZBC-NCs) as a novel selective cancer cell drug delivery system in HT-29 cell line

“…In the current study, Zein, the maize endosperm primary protein was selected due to its potential to prolong the biomolecule’s lifespan, its excellent mechanical in producing films, and controllable delivery of bioactive compounds. Moreover, Zein contains several nonpolar and polar amino acid residues, improving its solubility 32 . In other words, Zein acted as the silibinin solubilizer and protector agent in the SZBC-NCs structure.…”