Soybean waste yields 3D-printable material that could help repair skin
Transforming a soybean processing byproduct into a material for skin protection and repair is the prospect outlined by a study that used okara, a residue from the production of tofu and soy-based beverages, to obtain a bioactive, biodegradable, 3D-printable biomaterial.
Researchers have developed a 3D-printable material derived from soybean waste that can help repair skin and treat pain associated with breastfeeding and postoperative recovery following breast cancer surgery. Okara, a residue from tofu and soy-based beverage production, was transformed into a bioactive, biodegradable, protein hydrolysate rich in peptides, which was then incorporated into a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer called poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL).
The resulting blend retained the properties of PCL and enabled the extended release of bioactive peptides over time. In vitro tests showed that the material exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and promoted fibroblast migration, an essential process for wound healing. The researchers also confirmed that the material retained its beneficial properties after 3D printing, demonstrating its versatility and potential for customizing devices for women's health.
The research, conducted by professors Carmen Lammi and Serena Graziosi and their respective teams, aims to develop sustainable and customizable solutions for people's health while reducing environmental impact.
Written by urgent.news from Phys.org's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.