Improvement in physical and biological properties of chitosan/soy protein films by surface grafted heparin

Soy Protein-Based Wound Dressings: A Review of Their Preparation, Properties, and Perspectives

Wound healing is a major challenge worldwide, and people have been researching wound dressings that can promote wound healing for decades. Natural biobased materials, such as polysaccharides and proteins, have been widely used in the development of wound dressings. Among them, soy protein-based materials have attracted the interest of a wide range of researchers due to their safety, biocompatibility, controlled degradation, and ability to be mixed with other materials. However, there has been a lack of comments on these soy protein-based wound dressings. This work reviews various forms of soy protein-based wound dressings, such as hydrogels, films, and others, which could be prepared through physical/chemical cross-linking with synthetic or natural polymers. The important role played by soy protein-based materials in the wound healing phase and their properties will be examined, such as their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, angiogenesis-promoting, cellular biocompatibility, self-healing ability, adhesion, antimicrobial, and tunable mechanical properties. Additionally, insights into the market prospects and trends for soy protein dressings are provided, clarifying the enormous development potential of soy protein as a new type of wound repair material.

In situ densification and heparin immobilization of bacterial cellulose vascular patch for potential vascular applications

Nowadays, developing vascular grafts (e.g., vascular patches and tubular grafts) is challenging. Bacterial cellulose (BC) with 3D fibrous network has been widely investigated for vascular applications. In this work, different from BC vascular patch cultured with the routine culture medium, dopamine (DA)-containing culture medium is employed to in situ synthesize dense BC fibrous structure with significantly increased fiber diameter and density. Simultaneously, BC fibers are modified by DA during in situ synthesis process. Then DA on BC fibers can self-polymerize into polydopamine (PDA) accompanied with the removal of bacteria in NaOH solution, obtaining PDA-modified dense BC (PDBC) vascular patch. Heparin (Hep) is subsequently covalently immobilized on PDBC fibers to form Hep-immobilized PDBC (Hep@PDBC) vascular patch. The obtained results indicate that Hep@PDBC vascular patch exhibits remarkable tensile and burst strength due to its dense fibrous structure. More importantly, compared with BC and PDBC vascular patches, Hep@PDBC vascular patch not only displays reduced platelet adhesion and improved anticoagulation activity, but also promotes the proliferation, adhesion, spreading, and protein expression of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, contributing to the endothelialization process. The combined strategy of in situ densification and Hep immobilization provides a feasible guidance for the construction of BC-based vascular patches.

Comprehensive Development of a Cellulose Acetate and Soy Protein-Based Scaffold for Nerve Regeneration

BACKGROUND

The elaboration of biocompatible nerve guide conduits (NGCs) has been studied in recent years as a treatment for total nerve rupture lesions (axonotmesis). Different natural polymers have been used in these studies, including cellulose associated with soy protein. The purpose of this report was to describe manufacturing NGCs suitable for nerve regeneration using the method of dip coating and evaporation of solvent with cellulose acetate (CA) functionalized with soy protein acid hydrolysate (SPAH).

METHODS

The manufacturing method and bacterial control precautions for the CA/SPAH NGCs were described. The structure of the NGCs was analyzed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM); porosity was analyzed with a degassing method using a porosimeter. Schwann cell (SCL 4.1/F7) biocompatibility of cell-seeded nerve guide conduits was evaluated with the MTT assay.

RESULTS

The method employed allowed an easy elaboration and customization of NGCs, free of bacteria, with pores in the internal surface, and the uniform wall thickness allowed manipulation, which showed flexibility; additionally, the sample was suturable. The NGCs showed initial biocompatibility with Schwann cells, revealing cells adhered to the NGC structure after 5 days.

CONCLUSIONS

The fabricated CA/SPAH NGCs showed adequate features to be used for peripheral nerve regeneration studies. Future reports are necessary to discuss the ideal concentration of CA and SPAH and the mechanical and physicochemical properties of this biomaterial.

Local Clays from China as Alternative Hemostatic Agents

In recent years, the coagulation properties of inorganic minerals such as kaolin and zeolite have been demonstrated. This study aimed to assess the hemostatic properties of three local clays from China: natural kaolin from Hainan, natural halloysite from Yunnan, and zeolite synthesized by our group. The physical and chemical properties, blood coagulation performance, and cell biocompatibility of the three materials were tested. The studied materials were characterized by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). All three clays showed different morphologies and particle size, and exhibited negative potentials between pH 6 and 8. The TGA and DSC curves for kaolin and halloysite were highly similar. Kaolin showed the highest water absorption capacity (approximately 93.8% ± 0.8%). All three clays were noncytotoxic toward L929 mouse fibroblasts. Kaolin and halloysite showed blood coagulation effects similar to that exhibited by zeolite, indicating that kaolin and halloysite are promising alternative hemostatic materials.

Lignin and Keratin-Based Materials in Transient Devices and Disposables: Recent Advances Toward Materials and Environmental Sustainability

Rising concerns and the associated negative implications of pollution from e-waste and delayed decomposition and mineralization of component materials (e.g., plastics) are significant environmental challenges. Hence, concerted pursuit of accurate and efficient control of the life cycle of materials and subsequent dematerialization in target environments has become essential in recent times. The emerging field of transient technology will play a significant role in this regard to help overcome current environmental challenges by enabling the use of novel approaches and new materials with unique functionalities to produce devices and materials such as disposable diagnostic devices, flexible solar panels, and foldable displays that are more ecologically benign, low-cost, and sustainable. The prerequisites for materials employed in transient devices and disposables include biodegradability, biocompatibility, and the inherent ability to mineralize or dissipate in target environments (e.g., body fluids) in a short lifetime with net-zero impact. Biomaterials such as lignin and keratin are well-known to be among the most promising environmentally benign, functional, sustainable, and industrially applicable resources for transient devices and disposables. Consequently, considering the current environmental concerns, this work focuses on the advances in applying lignin and keratin-based materials in short-life electronics and single-use consumables, current limitations, future research outlook toward materials, and environmental sustainability.

Feasibility of bionanocomposite films fabricated using capsicum leaf protein and cellulose nanofibers

In this study, the feasibility of fabricating protein-based bionanocomposite films (PBBFs) was analysed by applying capsicum leaf protein (CLP) and cellulose nanofiber (CNF) as raw materials. The effects of different amounts of CNF (solid content 2%) on physicochemical and material properties of PBBFs were investigated. The results showed nanoscale CNFs exhibited good interfacial compatibility with CLP. The hydroxyl groups on the CNF surface promoted the association of hydrogen bonds between CLP, glycerol and CNF, which improved the crystal structure and thermal stability of PBBFs. Concurrently, the mechanical properties and hydrophobicity of PBBFs are also enhanced. PBBFs with 60% CNF content have maximum flexibility and hydrophobicity. All PBBFs exhibited ultraviolet barrier performance, indicating that PBBFs had potential application prospects in the development of degradable food packaging materials. The results of the present study can provide a theoretical basis for the efficient utilisation of capsicum planting waste while improving the ecosystem.

Blood biocompatibility enhancement of biomaterials by heparin immobilization: a review

Blood contacting materials are concerned with biocompatibility including thrombus formation, decrease blood coagulation time, hematology, activation of complement system, platelet aggression. Interestingly, recent research suggests that biocompatibility is increasing by incorporating various materials including heparin using different methods. Basic of heparin including uses and complications was mentioned, in which burst release of heparin is major issue. To minimize the problem of biocompatibility and unpredictable heparin release, present review article potentially reviews the reported work and investigates the various immobilization methods of heparin onto biomaterials, such as polymers, metals, and alloys. Detailed explanation of different immobilization methods through different intermediates, activation, incubation method, plasma treatment, irradiations and other methods are also discussed, in which immobilization through intermediates is the most exploitable method. In addition to biocompatibility, other required properties of biomaterials like mechanical and corrosion resistance properties that increase by attachment of heparin are reviewed and discussed in this article.

Biomimetic camouflage delivery strategies for cancer therapy

Cancer remains a significant challenge despite the progress in developing different therapeutic approaches. Nanomedicine has been explored as a promising novel cancer therapy. Recently, biomimetic camouflage strategies have been investigated to change the bio-fate of therapeutics and target cancer cells while reducing the unwanted exposure on normal tissues. Endogenous components (e.g., proteins, polysaccharides, and cell membranes) have been used to develop anticancer drug delivery systems. These biomimetic systems can overcome biological barriers and enhance tumor cell-specific uptake. The tumor-targeting mechanisms include ligand-receptor interactions and stimuli-responsive (e.g., pH-sensitive and light-sensitive) delivery. Drug delivery carriers composed of endogenous components represent a promising approach for improving cancer treatment efficacy. In this paper, different biomimetic drug delivery strategies for cancer treatment are reviewed with a focus on the discussion of their advantages and potential applications.

Electrospun, sepiolite-loaded poly(vinyl alcohol)/soy protein isolate nanofibers: Preparation, characterization, and their drug release behavior

Wound management and drug release are important applications for electrospun nanofibers. In this study, poly(vinyl alcohol)/soy protein isolate (PVA/SPI) nanofiber mats were produced by electrospinning and used as drug carriers. The mats were loaded with ketoprofen by dissolving the drug in the solutions for nanofiber electrospinning. To improve drug release control of the nanofiber mats, a natural tubular nanoparticle, sepiolite, was used as a secondary release control tool. Three types of nanofiber mats were fabricated by electrospinning the solutions prepared by 1) direct mixing of PVA, SPI, and ketoprofen, 2) direct mixing of PVA, SPI, sepiolite, and ketoprofen, and 3) mixing PVA, SPI, and ketoprofen-preloaded sepiolite. The drug release behavior of the mats was studied using UV-vis spectroscopy and the mechanical properties of the mats were investigated by tensile testing. The results showed that sepiolite had a high impact on the release of ketoprofen, with the drug-loaded sepiolite leading to the slowest release. The incorporation of SPI and sepiolite into the PVA nanofibers also increased the mechanical strength of the mats, making them easier to handle and potentially longer-lasting. This study demonstrated the potential of using natural biomaterials and nanomaterials as the components of controlled-release drug delivery vehicles.

Fabrication of Hydroxypropyl Chitosan/Soy Protein Isolate Hydrogel for Effective Hemorrhage Control

Hemostatic materials are increasingly important in civilian and military clinics. In this work, a hydrogel was fabricated from hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPCS) and soy protein isolate (SPI) through the crosslinking of epichlorohydrin. Effects of SPI content on the structure, and physical and biological properties of the prepared hydrogels were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, water uptake testing, mechanical properties testing, MTT assay, hemolysis ratio testing, and routine blood coagulation test. The results indicated that the hydrogels showed high water uptake ability and compressive strength. The in vitro biocompatibility evaluation revealed that the hydrogel contains 30% SPI content (HCSH-30), could promote blood coagulation and cell proliferation. Furthermore, the hemostatic model of liver in New Zealand rabbit was applied to assess the hemostatic efficacy of the hydrogels. The results demonstrated that HCSH-30 stopped bleeding in 75 ± 1.63 s and improved hemostasis as compared with medical gauze. Thus, the HPCS/SPI hydrogel is expected to be a potential candidate for effective hemorrhage control. Impact statement Stoppage of bleeding is of paramount clinical significance in prophylactic, surgical, and emergency scenarios. This work describes a hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPCS)/soy protein isolate hydrogel, which could promote blood coagulation and cell proliferation, as well as stop bleeding in 75 ± 1.63 s on the liver of New Zealand rabbits. Thus, we provide a new candidate for hemostatic material and broaden the application of HPCS-based materials.

Aligned soy protein isolate-modified poly(L-lactic acid) nanofibrous conduits enhanced peripheral nerve regeneration

OBJECTIVE

Repair and regeneration of peripheral nerve defect by engineered conduits have greatly advanced in the past decades while still facing great challenges.

APPROACH

In this work, we fabricated a new highly oriented poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA)/soy protein isolate (SPI) nanofibrous conduit (HO-PSNC) for nerve regeneration.

MAIN RESULTS

Firstly, we observed that SPI could efficiently modify PLLA for the electrospinning of PLLA/SPI nanofibers with enhanced physical and biological properties. Incorporation of SPI decreased the fiber diameter and ductility of PLLA/SPI nanofibrous films (PSNFs), improved the tensile strength and surface wettability of PSNFs and increased the in vivo degradability of the PSNFs. When the hybrid ratio of SPI was 20 and 40%, PSNFs could efficiently promote neural cell extension and differentiation in vitro. Based on these data, 20% SPI (PSNF-20) was chosen for further investigation. Next, PSNF-20 with different fiber orientations (random/low orientation, medium, and high orientation, respectively) were developed and used for evaluating neural cell behaviors on the materials. Results revealed that the PSNF-20 with highly oriented nanofibers (HO-PSNF-20) or mediumly oriented nanofibers (MO-PSNF-20) showed a better performance in directing cell extension and enhancing neurite outgrowth. Finally, the highly oriented nanofibers conduits (HO-PSNC-20) were used to bridge sciatic nerve defect in rats with highly oriented PLLA and autografts as controls. HO-PSNC-20 exhibited a significant promotion in nerve regeneration and functional reconstruction comparing to highly oriented PLLA as proven by the evaluations of walking track, electrophysiology, toluidine blue nerve staining, transmission electron microscopy, neural factors staining and qPCR, and gastrocnemius histology.

SIGNIFICANCE

In conclusion, nerve conduit fabricated from aligned electrospinning of SPI-modified PLLA nanofibers is promising for peripheral nerve regeneration.

Characterization and Hemostatic Potential of Two Kaolins from Southern China

The physicochemical properties and potential hemostatic application of Wenchang kaolin and Maoming kaolin were inspected and evaluated. Chemical composition analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, surface area determination, X-ray diffraction, particle size, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations, and zeta potential analysis were performed to quantify the physical and chemical properties of the two kaolins. The results showed that both kaolins have typical FTIR bands of kaolinite with a weight fraction for kaolinite over 90 wt%. Larger conglobate aggregates of Maoming kaolin demonstrated wider particle size distributions with two peaks at 3.17 and 35.57 μm, while the book-like Wenchang kaolin had narrow particle size distribution, with a frequent size of 5.64 μm. Furthermore, thrombelastography, the whole blood clotting tests (WBCT), plasma recalcification time (PRT) measurement, and MTT assay were performed to measure the clotting activities and biocompatibility of the two kaolins. The results showed that both kaolins could promote blood coagulation with good cytocompatibility, while Wenchang kaolin had a better procoagulant activity than Maoming kaolin. These findings demonstrated Wenchang kaolin to be a more suitable local source material for application as a hemostatic agent.

An Albumin Biopassive Polyallylamine Film with Improved Blood Compatibility for Metal Devices

Nowadays, a variety of materials are employed to make numerous medical devices, including metals, polymers, ceramics, and others. Blood-contact devices are one of the major classes of these medical devices, and they have been widely applied in clinical settings. Blood-contact devices usually need to have good mechanical properties to maintain clinical performance. Metal materials are one desirable candidate to fabricate blood-contact devices due to their excellent mechanical properties and machinability, although the blood compatibility of existing blood-contact devices is better than other medical devices, such as artificial joints and artificial crystals. However, blood coagulation still occurs when these devices are used in clinical settings. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a new generation of blood-contact devices with fewer complications, and the key factor is to develop novel biomaterials with good blood compatibility. In this work, one albumin biopassive polyallylamine film was successfully established onto the 316L stainless steel (SS) surface. The polyallylamine film was prepared by plasma polymerization in the vacuum chamber, and then polyallylamine film was annealed at 150 °C for 1 h. The chemical compositions of the plasma polymerized polyallylamine film (PPAa) and the annealed polyallylamine film (HT-PPAa) were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FTIR). Then, the wettability, surface topography, and thickness of the PPAa and HT-PPAa were also evaluated. HT-PPAa showed increased stability when compared with PPAa film. The major amino groups remained on the surface of HT-PPAa after annealing, indicating that this could be a good platform for numerous molecules' immobilization. Subsequently, the bovine serum albumin (BSA) was immobilized onto the HT-PPAa surface. The successful introduction of the BSA was confirmed by the FTIR and XPS detections. The blood compatibility of these modified films was evaluated by platelets adhesion and activation assays. The number of the platelets that adhered on BSA-modified HT-PPAa film was significantly decreased, and the activation degree of the adhered platelets was also decreased. These data revealed that the blood compatibility of the polyallylamine film was improved after BSA immobilized. This work provides a facile and effective approach to develop novel surface treatment for new-generation blood-contact devices with improved hemocompatibility.

Accelerated skin wound healing by soy protein isolate-modified hydroxypropyl chitosan composite films

In this study, a series of hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPCS)/soy protein isolate (SPI) composite films (HCSFs) with different SPI contents were developed via crosslinking, solution casting, and evaporation process. Effects of the SPI content on the structure and physical properties of the HCSFs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction patterns, scanning electron microscopy, swelling kinetics analysis, and mechanical testing. The HCSFs exhibited a lower swelling ratio with an increase in the SPI content. The tensile strength was in a tunable range from 7.88 ± 3.08 to 40.44 ± 2.31 MPa by adjusting the SPI content. Cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility of the HCSFs were evaluated by a series of in vitro assays, including MTT assay, live/dead assay, cell morphology observation, hemolysis ratio testing, and plasma recalcification time measurement. Results showed that the HCSFs support L929 cells attachment and proliferation without obvious hemolysis, indicating good cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility. The potential of resultant HCSFs as the wound dressings was investigated using a full-thickness skin wound model in rats. Results exhibited that the HCSFs with 50% SPI content had the fastest healing speed and the best skin regeneration efficiency and may be a potential candidate as the wound dressing.

Genotoxicity and Hemocompatibility of a Novel Calcium Aluminate-Based Cement

Objective:

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the genotoxicity and hemocompatibility of a novel calcium aluminate-based cement, EndoBinder (EB) (Binderware, São Carlos, SP, Brazil) and compare it with Angelus White Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) (AWMTA) (Angelus, Soluções Odontológicas, Londrina, PR, Brazil).

Methods:

For evaluation of genotoxicity, a comet assay was performed with Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells that had been grown for 24 h in Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium incubated with each of the cements for 24 h at 37°C. DNA percentage in head and Olive tail moment were analyzed. For assessment of hemocompatibility, erythrocyte lysis quantification, and concentration of plasma fibrinogen were determined in human blood samples placed in contact with each of the materials. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post hoc Tukey test and Student t-test were used for data analysis of genotoxicity and hemocompatibility, respectively.

Results:

Results showed that the genotoxic effects of EB and AWMTA were comparable to that of the negative control, with no statistically significant differences between AWMTA and negative control (P>0.05). Compared to AWMTA, EB showed greater hemolytic potential when placed in direct contact with erythrocytes (P<0.05). Fibrinogen values were low for both materials, with protein concentration being greater in samples exposed to EB than to AWMTA.

Conclusion:

Both materials presented a higher hemolytic behaviour compared to what is established by international standards. Fibrinogen formation was low for both materials, and DNA damage induction was not observed in a comet assay.

Electrodeposition to construct mechanically robust chitosan-based multi-channel conduits

A series of electrodeposited chitosan-based multi-channel conduits (ECMC) with potential for peripheral nerve tissue engineering were constructed using a novel electrodeposition method combined with homemade molds. The structural and mechanical properties of the ECMC were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction patterns and mechanical testing. The results showed that the electrodeposition process did not change the chemical structure of the chitosan molecules, but endowed the ECMC with high levels of flexibility and elasticity. Hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility of the ECMC were evaluated by hemolysis assay, MTT assay and live/dead assay. The results indicated that the ECMC had a low hemolysis rate, and can promote cell proliferation and support cell adhesion. This work provides a safe and feasible electrodeposition method to construct chitosan-based conduits with potential applications for peripheral nerve tissue engineering.

Surface heparinization and blood compatibility modification of small intestinal submucosa (SIS) for small-caliber vascular regeneration

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the small intestinal submucosal (SIS) surface after heparinization with the hypothermia plasma technique, to improve the blood compatibility of SIS, and to explore the possibility of construction of small-caliber vascular grafts with modified SIS scaffolds in vivo.

METHODS

SIS films prepared from jejunums of pigs were processed for surface treatment at different time periods with the argon plasma initiation technique under vacuum, and were then immediately immersed in 4% (m/v) heparin sodium solution for 24-h heparinization. The surface morphologies of heparinized SIS were observed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The antithrombogenicity of the modified SIS films was tested by measuring the water contact angle, blood coagulation time, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time (TT), and observation of platelet adherence by SEM. Heparinized SIS films were sewn into a small caliber (3-mm) tube and implanted into the defect of a canine femur by anastomosis as a vascular graft. The efficiency of the SIS graft was evaluated according to the patency for the circulation of blood with Doppler color ultrasonography and hematoxylin-eosin staining.

RESULTS

Heparinized SIS showed a significantly different surface morphology compared with that of untreated SIS. The SIS surface resembles wrinkled film, but the heparinized SIS surface is uniformly coated with microdots, and appears to have a layer of heparin adhesion.

CONCLUSION

Heparin was attached to the SIS surface after hypothermia plasma treatment. Hydrophilicity and antithrombogenicity of heparinized SIS were clearly increased. The heparinized SIS vascular graft showed great potential for replacement of defective small-caliber vessels.

Properties of Soy Protein Isolate Biopolymer Film Modified by Graphene

This study applied a facile and green approach to synthesize a stable graphene aqueous dispersion, and the graphene aqueous dispersion was employed to modify the renewable, compatible and biodegradable soy-protein-isolated (SPI) films to enhance their thermal stability, mechanical properties and water resistance. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images confirmed the monolayer structure of graphene. The hydrogen bonds and π⁻π interactions between graphene and the SPI molecules were showed with the attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR FT-IR) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). As expected, compared to the pure SPI film, the tensile strength (TS) of the film with 74% graphene increased by 27.22% and the total soluble matter (TSM) of the film with 93% graphene decreased by 11.30%.

Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan/Soy Protein Isolate Nanocomposite Film Reinforced by Cu Nanoclusters

Soy protein isolate (SPI) based films have received considerable attention for use in packaging materials. However, SPI-based films exhibit relatively poor mechanical properties and water resistance ability. To tackle these challenges, chitosan (CS) and endogenous Cu nanoclusters (NCs) capped with protein were proposed and designed to modify SPI-based films. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction patterns of composite films demonstrated that interactions, such as hydrogen bonds in the film forming process, promoted the cross-linking of composite films. The surface microstructure of CS/SPI films modified with Cu NCs was more uniform and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that uniform and discrete clusters were formed. Compared with untreated SPI films, the tensile strength and elongation at break of composite films were simultaneously improved by 118.78% and 74.93%, respectively. Moreover, these composite films also exhibited higher water contact angle and degradation temperature than that of pure SPI film. The water vapor permeation of the modified film also decreased. These improved properties of functional bio-polymers show great potential as food packaging materials.

A High-Performance Soy Protein Isolate-Based Nanocomposite Film Modified with Microcrystalline Cellulose and Cu and Zn Nanoclusters

Soy protein isolate (SPI)-based materials are abundant, biocompatible, renewable, and biodegradable. In order to improve the tensile strength (TS) of SPI films, we prepared a novel composite film modified with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and metal nanoclusters (NCs) in this study. The effects of the modification of MCC on the properties of SPI-Cu NCs and SPI-Zn NCs films were investigated. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy analyses and X-ray diffraction patterns characterized the strong interactions and reduction of the crystalline structure of the composite films. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the enhanced cross-linked and entangled structure of modified films. Compared with an untreated SPI film, the tensile strength of the SPI-MCC-Cu and SPI-MCC-Zn films increased from 2.91 to 13.95 and 6.52 MPa, respectively. Moreover, the results also indicated their favorable water resistance with a higher water contact angle. Meanwhile, the composite films exhibited increased initial degradation temperatures, demonstrating their higher thermostability. The results suggested that MCC could effectively improve the performance of SPI-NCs films, which would provide a novel preparation method for environmentally friendly SPI-based films in the applications of packaging materials.