Advances in proteinous biomaterials

Commercial products prepared from synthetic polymers have been used actively for nearly 70 years. However, these products pose serious environmental threats and are naturally limited. Proteins, abundantly present in nature, are renewable raw material and could act as substitute for petroleum-based polymer materials. Research and development on protein-based materials as plastics, foams, adhesives, fibers and composites has been greatly emphasized in last 10-15 years. In the 21st century, science and technology have moved towards renewable raw materials having environmentally friendly nature and sustainability, so protein-based "green" materials have become a research focus. This review aims at highlighting on the recent developments of protein-based materials with emphasis on adhesive properties, mechanical properties, water resistance, biodegradabilities, bio-compatability, and permeability. Advantages and disadvantages of protein-based materials over synthetic materials as well as biomedical applications of the proteinous material are also discussed. About 192 recent literatures were cited to summarize the advancement of proteinous biomaterials in this review paper.