Advancements in amyloid-based biological materials for healthcare, environmental and sensing applications

Abstract

Amyloids are insoluble accumulations of fibrils formed by various proteins such as Aβ1–40, lysozyme, α-synuclein, insulin and peptides associated with several protein aggregation-related diseases. The self-assembling property of amyloid fibrils has been demonstrated to be a powerful characteristic for creating protein-based materials for various applications. Biomaterials based on amyloid fibrils have recently gained momentum due to their superior mechanical strength, exceptional self-assembly and stability in various matrices. Owing to their versatile structural characteristics, amyloid fibrils can have remarkable potential for application in medicine, materials, packaging, tissue engineering, sensors and drug delivery. Here, the recent advancements in the structural characterization, synthesis, classification and the emerging applications of amyloid fibrils in healthcare, sensing and the environment have been reviewed. The biocompatibility, biodegradability and structural stability of amyloid fibril-based biomaterials open up new avenues for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to the conventionally used synthetic materials.