Modulation of animal and plant tissue growth with collagen‐starch‐organic molybdenum networks hydrogel biomatrices

The development of hydrogel biomatrices with potential to modulate animal and plant tissue growth is ongoing. In this study, molybdenum bio‐metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) (Mo‐bioMOFs) incorporating essential amino acids such as l‐histidine (Mo‐His), l‐phenylalanine (Mo‐Phe), and l‐tryptophan (Mo‐Trp) were encapsulated in semi‐interpenetrating polymer network (semi‐IPN) hydrogels composed of collagen and starch. The structure and properties of these materials show dependence on the amino acid that constitutes the Mo‐bioMOFs. The biomatrices have a semi‐crystalline surface with increased porosity when using Mo‐His; this system also benefits swelling. Increased crosslinking, acceleration in gelation, and mechanical improvement are observed for the system based on Mo‐Phe. Methylene blue release experiments were conducted, demonstrating that matrices including Mo‐bioMOFs exhibit controlled release profiles, indicating highly stable retention of Mo‐bioMOFs in the semi‐IPN matrix. The biomatrices enhance the metabolism and proliferation of fibroblasts and monocytes, with Mo‐Trp reducing the secretion of inflammatory cytokines like TNF‐α. The biomatrices exhibit gradual and slow mass loss when exposed to collagenase and commercial vegetable substrates. Both leaf and root cells of tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) show increased metabolism and growth when exposed to Mo‐Phe and Mo‐His. Notably, the biomatrix containing Mo‐Phe promotes the most substantial plant growth and foliage after 30 days. These biomatrices have potential applications in chronic wound healing and agriculture.