BioZnMOFs dispersed in collagen-starch hydrogels: a stimulating approach for animal and plant tissue growth

The utilization of bio-derived zinc metal–organic frameworks (bioZnMOFs) as crystalline materials represents an advanced innovation with dual significance in both physicochemical and biological realms. BioZnMOFs based on essential amino acids such as l-phenylalanine, l-histidine, and l-tryptophan were dispersed in collagen–starch hydrogels (mass ratio 1%) to generate the materials ZnF, ZnH, and ZnT, respectively. Using solid-state ¹³C NMR, the chemical components of these systems were identified. The surface structure of these biomatrices was inspected by SEM, indicating that ZnT generates the largest occluded clusters. EDS analysis revealed that Zn(II) ions are uniformly distributed in all the semi-IPN biomatrices. WAXS analysis demonstrated a semi-crystalline structure, while FTIR analysis revealed that the ZnH matrix shows the greatest physicochemical interaction processes, benefiting crosslinking (40 ± 5%), swelling (4900 ± 510%), storage modulus (1000 Pa at 35 Hz), and reduced gelation time (10 ± 1 min) in this biomatrix. These materials display slow degradation in collagenase-rich environments and vegetable substrate. ZnH and ZnT matrices stimulate monocyte metabolism, while ZnF and ZnH actively promote fibroblast metabolism, encouraging proliferation at 48 h. ZnT shows modulation of IL-10 and TNF-α cytokine secretion in monocytes, suggesting its potential in wound healing applications. Additionally, the ZnT matrix enhances tomato root cell metabolism and proliferation. After 30 days, plants growing on ZnT matrices exhibit larger stem diameters and more leaves, showcasing their agricultural potential. Overall, these bioZnMOF-based materials offer versatile solutions with promising applications in biomedicine and agriculture.

Graphical abstract

The incorporation of bioZnMOFs into collagen-starch hydrogels allows for the modulation of their structural, physicochemical, and biological properties. The chemical structure of the bioZnMOF determines the enhancement of functional applicability. BioZnMOF based on l-histidine significantly improves crosslinking, swelling, and gelation speed, while those based on l-tryptophan stimulate animal tissue growth with inflammation control and also promote the growth of tomato plants. These advanced materials represent versatile platforms for biomedical and agricultural applications