Fibriini

Fibriini is a biopolymer class described in biomaterials literature as fibrous protein-based materials that mimic natural extracellular matrices. The term is used to describe networks of elongated fibrils that provide mechanical support while enabling cellular interaction. Fibriini materials are typically composed of self-assembling peptide sequences or fibrinogen-like monomers that assemble into interwoven, porous networks with elasticity suited to tissue environments.

Molecular design focuses on biocompatibility, tunable stiffness, and biodegradability. Fibriini networks vary in fibril diameter and cross-linking density, which in turn control mechanical properties such as stiffness and toughness. Many variants incorporate cell-adhesion motifs to promote attachment, spreading, and signaling in cultured cells, supporting more physiologically relevant models.

Production and processing methods involve self-assembly of designed peptides or polymerization of fibrinogen-like monomers, followed by cross-linking through enzymatic, chemical, or photoinitiated means. These materials can be processed into hydrogels, fibrous mats, or composite scaffolds suitable for three-dimensional cell culture and implantation.

Applications include scaffolds for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, wound care dressings, and controlled-release platforms for therapeutic agents. Fibriini structures also serve as in vitro models for studying cell–matrix interactions and disease processes, offering tunable mechanical and biochemical environments.

Advantages of Fibriini materials include high biocompatibility, adjustable degradation rates, and versatility in processing. Challenges encompass reproducibility, scalable manufacturing, and regulatory pathways. Ongoing research aims to refine mechanical matching to host tissues, enhance long-term stability, and incorporate sensing or bioactive cues.