**2. Incorporation of poly(L-lactic acid) into the proteinoid backbone**

Poly(lactic acid) or PLA is the thermoplastic aliphatic polyester of lactic acid, derived from renewable sources. It is the one of the most important bioplastics in the world in terms of consumption volume. PLA can be processed by extrusion, injection molding, film and sheet casting, and spinning, providing access to a wide range of materials and applications. Two racemic structures of PLA, the L form and the D form, are known as PLLA and PDLA, respectively [24].

PLA is already used in many biomedical applications, as it is able to degrade into innocuous lactic acid and is very safe [25-29]. Medical implants made of PLA and approved by the FDA are anchors, screws, plates, pins, rods, and as a mesh. Depending on the specific type used, the implants degrade inside the body within 6 to 24 months. The strength characteristics of PLA and PLLA implants is well documented [30,31].

PLA can also be used as a compostable packaging material, either cast, injection molded, or spun. Also, cups, bags, hygene products and diapers have been made from PLA [32].
