Synthetic biology-driven design and bioproduction of mechanical proteins

Structural proteins, with exceptional structural versatility and tailored properties, have inspired the design of mechanically robust biomaterials with diverse applications. Nevertheless, the heterologous biosynthesis of high-performance structural proteins faces inherent challenges due to their characteristic high molecular weight, highly repetitive sequences, and intricate folding patterns, frequently leading to reduced production yields, structural defects, and compromised mechanical properties. To overcome these limitations, researchers have adopted various strategies to refine sequence architectures and optimize heterologous expression systems of recombinant structural proteins. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in biosynthetic engineering for the heterologous production of structural proteins, highlighting key modifications in expression hosts, innovative molecular design approaches, and optimized cultivation conditions. These methodologies provide valuable insights for enhancing the yield and stability of high-molecular-weight recombinant structural proteins. Additionally, by evaluating current challenges and future directions in structural protein design and biosynthesis, this review seeks to further innovation in the development of advanced structural protein-based biomaterials.