Bio-Inspired and Protein-Based Elastomeric Materials

Natural structural-protein-based elastomeric materials have garnered significant attention as potential alternatives to synthetic polymers, due to their remarkable biodegradability, biocompatibility, and low immunogenicity as well as their exceptional mechanical performance with high resilience, energy storage capacity, and fatigue resistance. However, the biosynthesis of artificially engineered elastomeric proteins and fabrication of elastomeric materials with on-demand properties remain great challenges, particularly in the context of designing and governing the hierarchical structure of protein assemblies. To understand the essence of mechanical properties and maximize the potential of protein-based elastomeric materials, this review systematically explores the sources and molecular mechanisms for elastic performance of a diverse range of natural elastomeric proteins. Subsequently, we discuss the design, biosynthesis, and rational assembly strategies of artificially engineered elastomeric proteins with specific secondary structures. Finally, we address the current challenges and provide perspectives on the development of next-generation protein-based elastomeric materials.