Super Silk

Japanese researchers have found a way to create silk proteins with synthetic components by genetically modifying silkworms. The discovery will be useful for developing new types of medical implants that can act as scaffolds for growing new tissue as well as bandages that promote faster healing.

The use of silk for transplantation in humans is not new. The inert nature of silk proteins means that it causes fewer immune reactions than other materials. However, it also makes it more difficult for other cells to attach themselves. Past attempts at chemically altering the proteins once they are produced have not been successful, largely because it’s difficult to control where the alterations will occur along the amino acid chain. But by modifying the silkworm cells to produce an artificial amino acid (known as AzPhe) in place of a natural one, researchers can ensure that the genetic modification occurs at a precise location.

The modified silk can attach to a variety of molecules, including dyes, tissue cells and antibiotics.