Protein–TiO₂: A Functional Hybrid Composite with Diversified Applications

• Main Authors: Luis Miguel Anaya-Esparza, Zuamí Villagrán-de la Mora, Noé Rodríguez-Barajas, Teresa Sandoval-Contreras, Karla Nuño, David A. López-de la Mora, Alejandro Pérez-Larios, Efigenia Montalvo-González
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-12-01
• Series: Coatings
• Subjects: proteins; titanium dioxide; functionalization; hybrid composites
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6412/10/12/1194

Functionalization of protein-based materials by incorporation of organic and inorganic compounds has emerged as an active research area due to their improved properties and diversified applications. The present review provides an overview of the functionalization of protein-based materials by incorporating TiO₂ nanoparticles. Their effects on technological (mechanical, thermal, adsorptive, gas-barrier, and water-related) and functional (antimicrobial, photodegradation, ultraviolet (UV)-protective, wound-healing, and biocompatibility) properties are also discussed. In general, protein–TiO₂ hybrid materials are biodegradable and exhibit improved tensile strength, elasticity, thermal stability, oxygen and water resistance in a TiO₂ concentration-dependent response. Nonetheless, they showed enhanced antimicrobial and UV-protective effects with good biocompatibility on different cell lines. The main applications of protein–TiO₂ are focused on the development of eco-friendly and active packaging materials, biomedical (tissue engineering, bone regeneration, biosensors, implantable human motion devices, and wound-healing membranes), food preservation (meat, fruits, and fish oil), pharmaceutical (empty capsule shell), environmental remediation (removal and degradation of diverse water pollutants), anti-corrosion, and textiles. According to the evidence, protein–TiO₂ hybrid composites exhibited potential applications; however, standardized protocols for their preparation are needed for industrial-scale implementation.