Soybean-based biomaterials: preparation, properties and tissue regeneration potential

Future successes in regenerative medicine will depend on the development of new biodegradable biomaterials able to control tissue regeneration in vitro and in vivo. None of the products currently available to the surgeons can combine all the essential characteristics for biodegradable biomaterials which are (i) tuneable degradation rate, (ii) controlled inflammatory reaction, (iii) no toxicity, and (iv) stimulation of tissue regeneration. These clinical features should be provided together with ease of handling during surgery and cost effective production. Here, an overview is provided of a novel class of soybean-based biomaterials which can be manufactured as different hydrogels formulations, all tailored for specific clinical applications. In vitro and in vivo studies have ascertained their activity on various biochemical and cellular components of regenerating tissues. Beyond their use, the ascertained bioactivity of some of the soybean components may open new investigations and commercial routes in regenerative medicine.