Classifications, synthesis and applications of biodegradable pseudo-proteins: a review

Pseudo-protein is a novel synthetic biodegradeable material that has amino acids as the basic structural unit. Unlike protein, this polymer has other linking groups in addition to peptide bonds in their structure, which provide not only the excellent properties of protein, but also good mechanical properties, thermal properties, adjustable physicochemical properties, excellent cytocompatibility, 3D microporous structure, etc. Therefore, pseudo-proteins can be effectively applied in carriers, wound healing, tissue engineering, etc. This review summarizes the recent advances in the development of pseudo-proteins, the main classifications and the synthetic methods used in their preparation along with their main applications. Graphical abstract