Biopolymer-based films and scaffolds are emerging as key materials in biomedical applications such as tissue engineering, transdermal drug delivery, and wearable health monitoring systems. While cytocompatibility of biopolymers has been extensively studied, challenges remain in optimizing mechanical performance and achieving controlled mass transfer—both of which are critical for functional efficacy. This work presents a forward-looking approach to address these limitations through the integration of rheological insights during the early stages of formulation design. We investigate Sericin, a bioactive silk-derived protein, as the principal polymer matrix, with a polysaccharide introduced via rheology-guided formulation to enhance structural integrity. Using formic acid as a common solvent, in-situ rheological studies of different biopolymer compositions were conducted to correlate gelation behavior with the final mechanical and mass transport properties of the films. This methodology enables predictive control over key performance parameters, thereby reducing experimental redundancy and material waste. Preliminary cytocompatibility assessments—including MTT assays, Live/Dead staining, hemolysis, and cell proliferation studies—demonstrate favourable cell interaction, with evidence of 3D cell proliferation, indicating strong potential for in-vivo application. The results affirm the relevance of rheological profiling as a tool for guiding biopolymer design toward specific biomedical outcomes. Future work will focus on the role of thermal conditions in gelation kinetics and structural evolution, with broader application of this framework to other biopolymer systems.
