A comprehensive review on genipin: an efficient natural cross-linker for biopolymers Genipin (GN) is a natural, biodegradable, and biocompatible cross-linker that has been widely studied for its ability to enhance the properties of biopolymers used in biomedical and food industries. This review discusses the botanical sources of GN, its extraction methods, structure, and mechanisms of action. GN is primarily derived from the fruits of Genipa americana and Gardenia jasminoides. It is extracted using safe solvents such as water, ethanol, natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs), and milk. GN's ability to cross-link biopolymers like chitosan and gelatin has been extensively studied, and it has been shown to improve the mechanical properties and stability of these materials. GN is also used as a colorant for food and textiles and as a component in biosensors. The review highlights the importance of factors such as pH, temperature, and GN concentration in its interactions with biopolymers. GN's cross-linking capabilities have been applied in various fields, including tissue engineering, wound dressings, drug delivery, and packaging. The review also discusses the influence of pH, amino acid type, and temperature on GN interactions, as well as the effects of GN concentration on the properties of GN-amino complexes. Overall, GN is a promising natural cross-linker due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and efficiency in enhancing the properties of biopolymers.A comprehensive review on genipin: an efficient natural cross-linker for biopolymers Genipin (GN) is a natural, biodegradable, and biocompatible cross-linker that has been widely studied for its ability to enhance the properties of biopolymers used in biomedical and food industries. This review discusses the botanical sources of GN, its extraction methods, structure, and mechanisms of action. GN is primarily derived from the fruits of Genipa americana and Gardenia jasminoides. It is extracted using safe solvents such as water, ethanol, natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs), and milk. GN's ability to cross-link biopolymers like chitosan and gelatin has been extensively studied, and it has been shown to improve the mechanical properties and stability of these materials. GN is also used as a colorant for food and textiles and as a component in biosensors. The review highlights the importance of factors such as pH, temperature, and GN concentration in its interactions with biopolymers. GN's cross-linking capabilities have been applied in various fields, including tissue engineering, wound dressings, drug delivery, and packaging. The review also discusses the influence of pH, amino acid type, and temperature on GN interactions, as well as the effects of GN concentration on the properties of GN-amino complexes. Overall, GN is a promising natural cross-linker due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and efficiency in enhancing the properties of biopolymers.