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Mi J, Li X, Niu S, Zhou X, Lu Y, Yang Y, Sun Y, Meng Q. High-strength and ultra-tough supramolecular polyamide spider silk fibers assembled via specific covalent and reversible hydrogen bonds. Acta Biomater 2024; 176:190-200. [PMID: 38199426 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Achieving ultra-high tensile strength and exceptional toughness is a longstanding goal for structural materials. However, previous attempts using covalent and non-covalent bonds have failed, leading to the belief that these two properties are mutually exclusive. Consequently, commercial fibers have been forced to compromise between tensile strength and toughness, as seen in the differences between nylon and Kevlar. To address this challenge, we drew inspiration from the disparate tensile strength and toughness of nylon and Kevlar, both of which are polyamide fibers, and developed an innovative approach that combines specific intermolecular disulfide bonds and reversible hydrogen bonds to create ultra-strong and ultra-tough polyamide spider silk fibers. Our resulting Supramolecular polyamide spider silk, which has a maximum molecular weight of 1084 kDa, exhibits high tensile strength (1180 MPa) and extraordinary toughness (433 MJ/m3), surpassing Kevlar's toughness 8-fold. This breakthrough presents a new opportunity for the sustainable development of spider silk as an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic commercial fibers, as spider silk is composed of amino acids. Future research could explore the use of these techniques and fundamental knowledge to develop other super materials in various mechanical fields, with the potential to improve people's lives in many ways. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: • By emulating synthetic commercial fibers such as nylon and polyethylene, we have successfully produced supramolecular-weight polyamide spider silk fibers with a molecular weight of 1084 kDa through a unique covalent bond-mediated linear polymerization reaction of spider silk protein molecules. This greatly surpasses the previous record of a maximum molecular weight of 556 kDa. • We obtained supramolecular polyamide spider silk fibers with both high-tensile strength and toughness. The stress at break is 1180 MPa, and the toughness is 8 times that of kevlar, reaching 433 MJ/m3. • Our results challenge the notion that it is impossible to manufacture fibers with both ultra-high tensile strength and ultra-toughness, and provide theoretical guidance for developing environmentally friendly and sustainable structural materials that meet industrial needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junpeng Mi
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xue Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore,14 Science Drive 4 117543, Singapore
| | - Shiwei Niu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Science and Technology Achievement Incubation Center, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Xingping Zhou
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China.
| | - Yihang Lu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yuchen Yang
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Qing Meng
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; College of Life and Geographic Sciences, Kashi University, Xin Jiang 844006, China.
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2
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Mi J, Zhou X, Sun R, Han J. Disabling spidroin N-terminal homologs' reverse reaction unveils why its intermolecular disulfide bonds have not evolved for 380 million years. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 249:125974. [PMID: 37499718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Spiders, ubiquitous predators known for their powerful silks, rely on spidroins that self-assemble from high-concentration solutions stored in silk glands, which are mediated by the NT and CT domains. CT homodimers containing intermolecular disulfide bonds enhance silk performance, promoting spider survival and reproduction. However, no NT capable of forming such disulfide bonds has been identified. Our study reveals that NT homodimers with sulfur substitution can form under alkaline conditions, shedding light on why spiders have not evolved intermolecular disulfide bonds in the NT module during their 380 million years of evolution. This discovery significantly advances our comprehension of spider evolution and silk spinning mechanisms, while also providing novel insights into protein storage, assembly, as well as the mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases associated with protein aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junpeng Mi
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xingping Zhou
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Rou Sun
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jiaojiao Han
- Department of Clinical Hematology and osology, Shanghai center for clinical laboratory, Shanghai 200126, China.
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3
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Trossmann VT, Lentz S, Scheibel T. Factors Influencing Properties of Spider Silk Coatings and Their Interactions within a Biological Environment. J Funct Biomater 2023; 14:434. [PMID: 37623678 PMCID: PMC10455157 DOI: 10.3390/jfb14080434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomaterials are an indispensable part of biomedical research. However, although many materials display suitable application-specific properties, they provide only poor biocompatibility when implanted into a human/animal body leading to inflammation and rejection reactions. Coatings made of spider silk proteins are promising alternatives for various applications since they are biocompatible, non-toxic and anti-inflammatory. Nevertheless, the biological response toward a spider silk coating cannot be generalized. The properties of spider silk coatings are influenced by many factors, including silk source, solvent, the substrate to be coated, pre- and post-treatments and the processing technique. All these factors consequently affect the biological response of the environment and the putative application of the appropriate silk coating. Here, we summarize recently identified factors to be considered before spider silk processing as well as physicochemical characterization methods. Furthermore, we highlight important results of biological evaluations to emphasize the importance of adjustability and adaption to a specific application. Finally, we provide an experimental matrix of parameters to be considered for a specific application and a guided biological response as exemplarily tested with two different fibroblast cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa T. Trossmann
- Chair of Biomaterials, Faculty of Engineering Science, University of Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Straße 1, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany; (V.T.T.); (S.L.)
| | - Sarah Lentz
- Chair of Biomaterials, Faculty of Engineering Science, University of Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Straße 1, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany; (V.T.T.); (S.L.)
| | - Thomas Scheibel
- Chair of Biomaterials, Faculty of Engineering Science, University of Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Straße 1, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany; (V.T.T.); (S.L.)
- Bayreuth Center for Colloids and Interfaces (BZKG), University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
- Bavarian Polymer Institute (BPI), University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
- Bayreuth Center for Molecular Biosciences (BZMB), University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
- Bayreuth Materials Center (BayMAT), University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Würzburg, Pleicherwall 2, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
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4
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Rising A, Harrington MJ. Biological Materials Processing: Time-Tested Tricks for Sustainable Fiber Fabrication. Chem Rev 2023; 123:2155-2199. [PMID: 36508546 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
There is an urgent need to improve the sustainability of the materials we produce and use. Here, we explore what humans can learn from nature about how to sustainably fabricate polymeric fibers with excellent material properties by reviewing the physical and chemical aspects of materials processing distilled from diverse model systems, including spider silk, mussel byssus, velvet worm slime, hagfish slime, and mistletoe viscin. We identify common and divergent strategies, highlighting the potential for bioinspired design and technology transfer. Despite the diversity of the biopolymeric fibers surveyed, we identify several common strategies across multiple systems, including: (1) use of stimuli-responsive biomolecular building blocks, (2) use of concentrated fluid precursor phases (e.g., coacervates and liquid crystals) stored under controlled chemical conditions, and (3) use of chemical (pH, salt concentration, redox chemistry) and physical (mechanical shear, extensional flow) stimuli to trigger the transition from fluid precursor to solid material. Importantly, because these materials largely form and function outside of the body of the organisms, these principles can more easily be transferred for bioinspired design in synthetic systems. We end the review by discussing ongoing efforts and challenges to mimic biological model systems, with a particular focus on artificial spider silks and mussel-inspired materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rising
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge 141 52, Sweden.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala 750 07, Sweden
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5
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Fan R, Hakanpää J, Elfving K, Taberman H, Linder MB, Aranko AS. Biomolecular Click Reactions Using a Minimal pH-Activated Catcher/Tag Pair for Producing Native-Sized Spider-Silk Proteins. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202216371. [PMID: 36695475 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202216371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
A type of protein/peptide pair known as Catcher/Tag pair spontaneously forms an intermolecular isopeptide bond which can be applied for biomolecular click reactions. Covalent protein conjugation using Catcher/Tag pairs has turned out to be a valuable tool in biotechnology and biomedicines, but it is essential to increase the current toolbox of orthogonal Catcher/Tag pairs to expand the range of applications further, for example, for controlled multiple-fragment ligation. We report here the engineering of novel Catcher/Tag pairs for protein ligation, aided by a crystal structure of a minimal CnaB domain from Lactobacillus plantarum. We show that a newly engineered pair, called SilkCatcher/Tag enables efficient pH-inducible protein ligation in addition to being compatible with the widely used SpyCatcher/Tag pair. Finally, we demonstrate the use of the SilkCatcher/Tag pair in the production of native-sized highly repetitive spider-silk-like proteins with >90 % purity, which is not possible by traditional recombinant production methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxia Fan
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 02150, Espoo, Finland
| | - Johanna Hakanpää
- Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Photon Science, Notkestrasse 85, 22607, Hamburg, Germany.,Hamburg Unit c/o DESY, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Notkestrasse 85, 22603, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karoliina Elfving
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 02150, Espoo, Finland
| | - Helena Taberman
- Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), Photon Science, Notkestrasse 85, 22607, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus B Linder
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 02150, Espoo, Finland
| | - A Sesilja Aranko
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 02150, Espoo, Finland
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6
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Complete gene sequence and mechanical property of the fourth type of major ampullate silk protein. Acta Biomater 2023; 155:282-291. [PMID: 36427684 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.11.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Spiders spin a great diversity of silk types for daily survival and reproduction. Of the six orb-weaver silk types, the dragline silk forming orb web frame attracts the most attention because of its extremely high tensile strength and toughness. So far, four types of major ampullate silk proteins (MaSp1-4) that make up dragline silk have been identified. These MaSp types have diversified amino acid motifs that underlie the impressive mechanical property of dragline silk by forming particular structures. Existing knowledge of MaSp4 proteins is fragmented, making it difficult to illuminate the structure and function of MaSp4. Here, we report the full-length MaSp4 gene with 11,334 bp from the orb-weaving spider Araneus ventricosus. Removing the only intron, the spliced complete transcript of MaSp4 gene is 6897 bp and encodes 2298 amino acids. Analysis of the primary structure of A. ventricosus MaSp4 protein reveals the repetitive region lacks poly-A and GGX motifs but has the unique GPGPQ motifs. Quantitative real-time PCR analyses show high levels of MaSp4 mRNA were detected in major ampullate gland. Structural characterization using CD- and FTIR sepctroscopy reveals a mainly α-helical solution conformation and a very high β-turn content within fibers. Collectively, our new findings provide complete template for recombinant silk protein with specific properties and support that the GPGPQ motif found in MaSp4 could increase flexibility in dragline silk by packing in more β-turns, expanding the repertoire of sequences known to form β-turn that is available for artificial chimeric silk fibers. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Dragline silk forming orb web frame attracts the most attention because of its extremely high tensile strength and toughness. So far, four types of major ampullate silk proteins (MaSp1-4) that make up dragline silk have been identified. Existing knowledge of MaSp4 proteins is fragmented, making it difficult to illuminate the structure and function of MaSp4. Here, we report the full-length MaSp4 gene from the orb-weaving spider Araneus ventricosus. We further identify the sequence, structure, and mechanical property of MaSp4 protein, providing a new insight into the structure-funtion relationships associated with MaSp4. Collectively, our new findings provide complete template for recombinant silk protein with specific properties and support that the GPGPQ motif found in MaSp4 could increase flexibility in dragline silk by packing in more β-turns, expanding the repertoire of sequences known to form β-turn that is available for artificial chimeric silk fibers.
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7
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Li J, Li S, Huang J, Khan AQ, An B, Zhou X, Liu Z, Zhu M. Spider Silk-Inspired Artificial Fibers. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2103965. [PMID: 34927397 PMCID: PMC8844500 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202103965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Spider silk is a natural polymeric fiber with high tensile strength, toughness, and has distinct thermal, optical, and biocompatible properties. The mechanical properties of spider silk are ascribed to its hierarchical structure, including primary and secondary structures of the spidroins (spider silk proteins), the nanofibril, the "core-shell", and the "nano-fishnet" structures. In addition, spider silk also exhibits remarkable properties regarding humidity/water response, water collection, light transmission, thermal conductance, and shape-memory effect. This motivates researchers to prepare artificial functional fibers mimicking spider silk. In this review, the authors summarize the study of the structure and properties of natural spider silk, and the biomimetic preparation of artificial fibers from different types of molecules and polymers by taking some examples of artificial fibers exhibiting these interesting properties. In conclusion, biomimetic studies have yielded several noteworthy findings in artificial fibers with different functions, and this review aims to provide indications for biomimetic studies of functional fibers that approach and exceed the properties of natural spider silk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiatian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyCollege of Pharmacy and College of ChemistryKey Laboratory of Functional Polymer MaterialsFrontiers Science Center for New Organic MatterNankai UniversityTianjin300071China
| | - Sitong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyCollege of Pharmacy and College of ChemistryKey Laboratory of Functional Polymer MaterialsFrontiers Science Center for New Organic MatterNankai UniversityTianjin300071China
| | - Jiayi Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyCollege of Pharmacy and College of ChemistryKey Laboratory of Functional Polymer MaterialsFrontiers Science Center for New Organic MatterNankai UniversityTianjin300071China
| | - Abdul Qadeer Khan
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyCollege of Pharmacy and College of ChemistryKey Laboratory of Functional Polymer MaterialsFrontiers Science Center for New Organic MatterNankai UniversityTianjin300071China
| | - Baigang An
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of Science and Technology LiaoningAnshan114051China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of ScienceChina Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing211198China
| | - Zunfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyCollege of Pharmacy and College of ChemistryKey Laboratory of Functional Polymer MaterialsFrontiers Science Center for New Organic MatterNankai UniversityTianjin300071China
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of Science and Technology LiaoningAnshan114051China
| | - Meifang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer MaterialsCollege of Materials Science and EngineeringDonghua UniversityShanghai201620China
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8
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Wen R, Wang K, Yang D, Yu T, Zan X, Meng Q. The novel aciniform silk protein (AcSp2-v2) reveals the unique repetitive domain with high acid and thermal stability and self-assembly capability. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 202:91-101. [PMID: 34973994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.12.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Orb-weaving spiders spin a mechanically and functionally diverse range of silk fibers, each composed of one or more specific silk proteins. Of all silk types, wrapping silk combines high strength and extensibility and is made of multiple aciniform silk proteins (AcSp) that can be grouped into two AcSp types (AcSp1 and AcSp2) according to their distinct repetitive regions. Here, we present a novel and complete AcSp gene from orb weaving spider Araneus ventricosus. Phylogenetic analysis of the terminal regions of spidroins reveals that the new silk protein and the published A. ventricosus AcSp2 together form a subclade, indicating that this protein is a member of AcSp2 subclass and therefore named AcSp2 variant 2 (AcSp2-v2). The repetitive region of A. ventricosus AcSp2-v2 contains 24 cysteine residues, which is the first time that cysteine has been found in repetitive regions of spidroins. Moreover, the discovery of the ability of AcSp2-v2 repetitive domain to self-assemble into silk fibers expands the repertoire of known self-assembling sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wen
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China; School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, China; Institute of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Kangkang Wang
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, China
| | - Dong Yang
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, China
| | - Tiantian Yu
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, China
| | - Xingjie Zan
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China; School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, School of Biomedical Engineering, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, China
| | - Qing Meng
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China.
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9
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Johansson J, Rising A. Doing What Spiders Cannot-A Road Map to Supreme Artificial Silk Fibers. ACS NANO 2021; 15:1952-1959. [PMID: 33470789 PMCID: PMC7905870 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c08933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Fabricating artificial spider silk fibers in bulk scale has been a major goal in materials science for centuries. Two main routes have emerged for making such fibers. One method uses biomimetics in which the spider silk proteins (spidroins) are produced under nativelike conditions and then spun into fibers in a process that captures the natural, complex molecular mechanisms. However, these fibers do not yet match the mechanical properties of native silk fibers, potentially due to the small size of the designed spidroin used. The second route builds on biotechnological progress that enables production of large spidroins that can be spun into fibers by using organic solvents. With this approach, fibers that equal the native material in terms of mechanical properties can be manufactured, but the yields are too low for economically sustainable production. Hence, the need for new ideas is urgent. Herein, we introduce a structural-biology-based approach for engineering artificial spidroins that circumvents the laws with which spidroins, being secretory proteins, have to comply in order to avoid membrane insertion and provide a road map to the production of biomimetic silk fibers with improved mechanical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Johansson
- Department
of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska
Institutet, Neo, 14183 Huddinge, Sweden
- E-mail:
| | - Anna Rising
- Department
of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska
Institutet, Neo, 14183 Huddinge, Sweden
- Department
of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
- E-mail:
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10
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Kvick M, Tasiopoulos CP, Barth A, Söderberg LD, Lundell F, Hedhammar M. Cyclic Expansion/Compression of the Air-Liquid Interface as a Simple Method to Produce Silk Fibers. Macromol Biosci 2020; 21:e2000227. [PMID: 33016002 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202000227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembly of recombinant spider silk protein at air-liquid interfaces is used as a starting point to produce homogeneous fiber bundles. The film that is formed on a silk protein solution in a vertically placed syringe is subjected to repeated controlled extension and compression by an oscillating vertical motion. Thereby, a precise breakup of the film can be achieved, followed by transport and roll-up against the syringe wall prior to extraction. Advantages of the method are that it 1) is simple to use; 2) requires a small volume of protein solution (1 mL) at relatively low concentration (1 mg mL-1 ); 3) can be performed under sterile conditions; 4) does not require any use of coagulants; and 5) is compatible with the addition of viable cells during the process, which thereby are integrated uniformly throughout the fiber.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christos P Tasiopoulos
- Institute of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, School of Biotechnology, Stockholm, SE-100 44, Sweden
| | - Andreas Barth
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, 106 91, Sweden
| | - Lars Daniel Söderberg
- Linné FLOW Centre, KTH Mechanics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, SE-100 44, Sweden.,Wallenberg Wood Science Center, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, SE-100 44, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Lundell
- Linné FLOW Centre, KTH Mechanics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, SE-100 44, Sweden.,Wallenberg Wood Science Center, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, SE-100 44, Sweden
| | - My Hedhammar
- Institute of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, School of Biotechnology, Stockholm, SE-100 44, Sweden
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11
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Wang K, Wen R, Meng Q. Properties of two spliceoforms of major ampullate spidroin 1 reveal unique functions of N-linker region. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 157:67-74. [PMID: 32339592 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.04.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Spiders produce diverse silk fibers with distinct properties for daily survival. Among these silk fibers, dragline silk spun by major ampullate gland is used for bridgelines and web radii, exhibiting both outstanding tensile strength and extensibility. Although more and more full-length major ampullate spidroin gene sequences have been reported, the research regarding alternative splicing events of spidroins are rare. Here we describe two spliceoforms of major ampullate spidroin 1 (MaSp1) from Araneus ventricosus, and both of them are lack of central repetitive region. The minor isoform only has terminal regions. For the major isoform, however, the N-linker and terminal regions are all retained. Furthermore, we investigated the functions of N-linker structure of A. ventricosus MaSp1, based on the properties of the two spliceoforms. The dimer level of major isoform (MaSp1-2) is higher than that of the minor isoform (MaSp1-1). Moreover, the MaSp1-2 protein display higher melting temperature (Tm) than MaSp1-1, and the MaSp1-2 fibers exhibit higher tensile strength than MaSp1-1 fibers. These studies demonstrate that the N-linker region promotes the formation of intermolecular disulphide bond, suggesting a strategy to enhance the thermostabilization and mechanical properties of spidroins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangkang Wang
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Wen
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Meng
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Poddar H, Breitling R, Takano E. Towards engineering and production of artificial spider silk using tools of synthetic biology. ENGINEERING BIOLOGY 2020; 4:1-6. [PMID: 36970229 PMCID: PMC9996717 DOI: 10.1049/enb.2019.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider silk is one of the strongest biomaterials available in nature. Its mechanical properties make it a good candidate for applications in various fields ranging from protective armour to bandages for wound dressing to coatings for medical implants. Spider silk is formed by an intricate arrangement of spidroins, which are extremely large proteins containing long stretches of repeating segments rich in alanine and glycine. A large amount of research has been directed towards harnessing the spectacular potential of spider silks and using them for different applications. The interdisciplinary approach of synthetic biology is an ideal tool to study these spider silk proteins and work towards the engineering and production of synthetic spider silk. This review aims to highlight the recent progress that has been made in the study of spider silk proteins using different branches of synthetic biology. Here, the authors discuss the different computational approaches, directed evolution techniques and various expression platforms that have been tested for the successful production of spider silk. Future challenges facing the field and possible solutions offered by synthetic biology are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hashwardhan Poddar
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology Research Centre SYNBIOCHEM The University of Manchester Manchester M1 7DN UK
| | - Rainer Breitling
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology Research Centre SYNBIOCHEM The University of Manchester Manchester M1 7DN UK
| | - Eriko Takano
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology Research Centre SYNBIOCHEM The University of Manchester Manchester M1 7DN UK
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13
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Zheng K, Ling S. De Novo Design of Recombinant Spider Silk Proteins for Material Applications. Biotechnol J 2018; 14:e1700753. [PMID: 29781251 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201700753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Spider silks are well known for their superior mechanical properties that are stronger and tougher than steel despite being assembled at close to ambient conditions and using water as the solvent. However, it is a significant challenge to utilize spider silks for practical applications due to their limited sources. Fortunately, genetic engineering techniques offer a promising approach to produce useable amounts of spider silk variants. Starting from these recombinant spider silk proteins, a series of experiments and simulations strategies are developed to improve the recombinant spider silk proteins (RSSP) material design and fabrication with the aim of biomimicking the structure-property-function relationships of spider silks. Accordingly, in this review, the authors first introduce the structure-property-function relationship of spider silks. Then, the recent progress in the genetic synthesis of RSSPs is discussed and their related multiscale self-assembly behaviors is summarized. Finally, the authors outline works utilizing multiscale modeling to assist RSSP material design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zheng
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Shengjie Ling
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
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14
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Al-Garawi ZS, Morris KL, Marshall KE, Eichler J, Serpell LC. The diversity and utility of amyloid fibrils formed by short amyloidogenic peptides. Interface Focus 2017; 7:20170027. [PMID: 29147557 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2017.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloidogenic peptides are well known for their involvement in diseases such as type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. However, more recently, amyloid fibrils have been shown to provide scaffolding and protection as functional materials in a range of organisms from bacteria to humans. These roles highlight the incredible tensile strength of the cross-β amyloid architecture. Many amino acid sequences are able to self-assemble to form amyloid with a cross-β core. Here we describe our recent advances in understanding how sequence contributes to amyloidogenicity and structure. For example, we describe penta- and hexapeptides that assemble to form different morphologies; a 12mer peptide that forms fibrous crystals; and an eight-residue peptide originating from α-synuclein that has the ability to form nanotubes. This work provides a wide range of peptides that may be exploited as fibrous bionanomaterials. These fibrils provide a scaffold upon which functional groups may be added, or templated assembly may be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa S Al-Garawi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9QG, UK.,Chemistry Department, College of Sciences, Al-Mustansyria University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Kyle L Morris
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Karen E Marshall
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Jutta Eichler
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Louise C Serpell
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9QG, UK
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15
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Liu B, Wang T, Xiao L, Zhang G, Li G, Luo J, Liu X. A directed self-assembly quasi-spider silk protein expressed in Pichia pastoris. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2017.1327823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Department of Medicine, Jinggangshan University, Jian, P.R. China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Medicine, Jinggangshan University, Jian, P.R. China
| | - Liyan Xiao
- School of Foreign Languages, Jinggangshan University, Jian, P.R. China
| | - Guilan Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Jinggangshan University, Jian, P.R. China
| | - Guangshen Li
- Department of Medicine, Jinggangshan University, Jian, P.R. China
| | - Jingzhi Luo
- Department of Medicine, Jinggangshan University, Jian, P.R. China
| | - Xiaobing Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jinggangshan University, Jian, P.R. China
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16
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Zhang H, Zhou F, Jiang X, Cao M, Wang S, Zou H, Cao Y, Xian M, Liu H. Microbial production of amino acid-modified spider dragline silk protein with intensively improved mechanical properties. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2017; 46:552-8. [PMID: 26460683 DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2015.1084637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Spider dragline silk is a remarkably strong fiber with impressive mechanical properties, which were thought to result from the specific structures of the underlying proteins and their molecular size. In this study, silk protein 11R26 from the dragline silk protein of Nephila clavipes was used to analyze the potential effects of the special amino acids on the function of 11R26. Three protein derivatives, ZF4, ZF5, and ZF6, were obtained by site-directed mutagenesis, based on the sequence of 11R26, and among these derivatives, serine was replaced with cysteine, isoleucine, and arginine, respectively. After these were expressed and purified, the mechanical performance of the fibers derived from the four proteins was tested. Both hardness and average elastic modulus of ZF4 fiber increased 2.2 times compared with those of 11R26. The number of disulfide bonds in ZF4 protein was 4.67 times that of 11R26, which implied that disulfide bonds outside the poly-Ala region affect the mechanical properties of spider silk more efficiently. The results indicated that the mechanical performances of spider silk proteins with small molecular size can be enhanced by modification of the amino acids residues. Our research not only has shown the feasibility of large-scale production of spider silk proteins but also provides valuable information for protein rational design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibo Zhang
- a CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials , Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao , China
| | - Fengli Zhou
- a CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials , Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao , China
| | - Xinglin Jiang
- a CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials , Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao , China
| | - Mingle Cao
- b Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology , University of Marburg , Marburg , Germany
| | - Shilu Wang
- a CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials , Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao , China
| | - Huibin Zou
- a CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials , Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao , China
| | - Yujin Cao
- a CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials , Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao , China
| | - Mo Xian
- a CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials , Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao , China
| | - Huizhou Liu
- a CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials , Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao , China
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17
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Muiznieks LD, Keeley FW. Biomechanical Design of Elastic Protein Biomaterials: A Balance of Protein Structure and Conformational Disorder. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2016; 3:661-679. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6b00469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D. Muiznieks
- Molecular
Structure and Function Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
| | - Fred W. Keeley
- Molecular
Structure and Function Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
- Department
of Biochemistry and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, 1 King’s College Circle, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A8
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18
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Howell DW, Tsai SP, Churion K, Patterson J, Abbey C, Atkinson JT, Porterpan D, You YH, Meissner KE, Bayless KJ, Bondos SE. Identification of multiple dityrosine bonds in materials composed of the Drosophila protein Ultrabithorax. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2015; 25:5988-5998. [PMID: 28725173 PMCID: PMC5513195 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201502852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The recombinant protein Ultrabithorax (Ubx), a Drosophila melanogaster Hox transcription factor, self-assembles into biocompatible materials in vitro that are remarkably extensible and strong. Here, we demonstrate that the strength of Ubx materials is due to intermolecular dityrosine bonds. Ubx materials auto-fluoresce blue, a characteristic of dityrosine, and bind dityrosine-specific antibodies. Monitoring the fluorescence of reduced Ubx fibers upon oxygen exposure reveals biphasic bond formation kinetics. Two dityrosine bonds in Ubx were identified by site-directed mutagenesis followed by measurements of fiber fluorescent intensity. One bond is located between the N-terminus and the homeodomain (Y4/Y296 or Y12/Y293), and another bond is formed by Y167 and Y240. Fiber fluorescence closely correlates with fiber strength, demonstrating that these bonds are intermolecular. To our knowledge, this is the first identification of specific residues that participate in dityrosine bonds in protein-based materials. The percentage of Ubx molecules harboring both bonds can be decreased or increased by mutagenesis, providing an additional mechanism to control the mechanical properties of Ubx materials. Duplication of tyrosine-containing motifs in Ubx increases dityrosine content in Ubx fibers, suggesting these motifs could be inserted in other self-assembling proteins to strengthen the corresponding materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Howell
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Shang-Pu Tsai
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Kelly Churion
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Jan Patterson
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Colette Abbey
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Joshua T Atkinson
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Graduate Program, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States
| | - Dustin Porterpan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Yil-Hwan You
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Kenith E Meissner
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Sarah E Bondos
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX 77843, United States
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19
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To spin or not to spin: spider silk fibers and more. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2015; 99:9361-80. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-015-6948-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2015] [Revised: 08/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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20
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Rising A. Controlled assembly: a prerequisite for the use of recombinant spider silk in regenerative medicine? Acta Biomater 2014; 10:1627-31. [PMID: 24090990 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2013.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent biotechnological progress has enabled the production of spider silk proteins, spidroins, in heterologous hosts. Matrices based on recombinant spidroins support stem cell growth and are well tolerated when implanted in living tissue, thus the material is highly attractive for use in regenerative medicine. However, the matrices made are far from natural silk in terms of mechanical properties and are either spontaneously assembled, which results in heterogeneous products, or spun from harsh solvents with the concomitant risk of harmful remnants in the final products. If we could mimic the spider's aqueous silk spinning process we would likely obtain a material that had reproducible and better characteristics and that more easily could be transferred to clinical practice. Herein, the knowledge of the spiders' silk production system and the prerequisites for artificial spinning and assembly of recombinant proteins are reviewed and discussed in a biomedical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rising
- KI-Alzheimer Disease Research Center, NVS (Neurobiology, Care Sciences, and Society) Department, Karolinska Institutet, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, The Biomedical Centre, Box 575, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden.
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21
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Abstract
It has been known for many decades that cell surface, soluble-secreted, and extracellular matrix proteins are generally rich in disulfide bonds, but only more recently has the functional diversity of disulfide bonding in extracellular proteins been appreciated. In addition to the classic mechanisms by which disulfide bonds enhance protein thermodynamic stability, disulfides in certain configurations contribute particular mechanical properties to proteins that sense and respond to tensile forces. Disulfides may help warp protein folds for the evolution of new functions, or they may fasten aggregation-prone flaps of polypeptide to protein surfaces to prevent fibrilization or oligomerization. Disulfides can also be used to package and secure macromolecular cargo for intercellular transport. A series of case studies illustrating diverse biophysical roles of disulfide bonding are reviewed, with a focus on proteins functioning in the extracellular environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Fass
- Department of Structural Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
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22
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Lin Z, Deng Q, Liu XY, Yang D. Engineered large spider eggcase silk protein for strong artificial fibers. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2013; 25:1216-1220. [PMID: 23172740 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201204357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Lin
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543
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23
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Chung H, Kim TY, Lee SY. Recent advances in production of recombinant spider silk proteins. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2012; 23:957-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2012.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2012] [Revised: 03/22/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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24
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Xu L, Rainey JK, Meng Q, Liu XQ. Recombinant minimalist spider wrapping silk proteins capable of native-like fiber formation. PLoS One 2012; 7:e50227. [PMID: 23209681 PMCID: PMC3509139 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0050227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider silks are desirable biomaterials characterized by high tensile strength, elasticity, and biocompatibility. Spiders produce different types of silks for different uses, although dragline silks have been the predominant focus of previous studies. Spider wrapping silk, made of the aciniform protein (AcSp1), has high toughness because of its combination of high elasticity and tensile strength. AcSp1 in Argiope trifasciata contains a 200-aa sequence motif that is repeated at least 14 times. Here, we produced in E. coli recombinant proteins consisting of only one to four of the 200-aa AcSp1 repeats, designated W1 to W4. We observed that purified W2, W3 and W4 proteins could be induced to form silk-like fibers by shear forces in a physiological buffer. The fibers formed by W4 were ∼3.4 µm in diameter and up to 10 cm long. They showed an average tensile strength of 115 MPa, elasticity of 37%, and toughness of 34 J cm−3. The smaller W2 protein formed fewer fibers and required a higher protein concentration to form fibers, whereas the smallest W1 protein did not form silk-like fibers, indicating that a minimum of two of the 200-aa repeats was required for fiber formation. Microscopic examinations revealed structural features indicating an assembly of the proteins into spherical structures, fibrils, and silk-like fibers. CD and Raman spectral analysis of protein secondary structures suggested a transition from predominantly α-helical in solution to increasingly β-sheet in fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Xu
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jan K. Rainey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Qing Meng
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- * E-mail: (QM); (XQL)
| | - Xiang-Qin Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- * E-mail: (QM); (XQL)
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25
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Moisenovich MM, Pustovalova O, Shackelford J, Vasiljeva TV, Druzhinina TV, Kamenchuk YA, Guzeev VV, Sokolova OS, Bogush VG, Debabov VG, Kirpichnikov MP, Agapov II. Tissue regeneration in vivo within recombinant spidroin 1 scaffolds. Biomaterials 2012; 33:3887-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2012.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2011] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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26
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Widhe M, Johansson J, Hedhammar M, Rising A. Current progress and limitations of spider silk for biomedical applications. Biopolymers 2011; 97:468-78. [DOI: 10.1002/bip.21715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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27
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Wang SSS, Liu KN, Wen WS, Wang P. Fibril Formation of Bovine α-Lactalbumin Is Inhibited by Glutathione. FOOD BIOPHYS 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s11483-010-9199-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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28
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Müller C, Jansson R, Elfwing A, Askarieh G, Karlsson R, Hamedi M, Rising A, Johansson J, Inganäs O, Hedhammar M. Functionalisation of recombinant spider silk with conjugated polyelectrolytes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1039/c0jm03270k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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29
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Rising A, Widhe M, Johansson J, Hedhammar M. Spider silk proteins: recent advances in recombinant production, structure-function relationships and biomedical applications. Cell Mol Life Sci 2011; 68:169-84. [PMID: 20668909 PMCID: PMC11114806 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-010-0462-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2010] [Revised: 06/04/2010] [Accepted: 07/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Spider dragline silk is an outstanding material made up of unique proteins-spidroins. Analysis of the amino acid sequences of full-length spidroins reveals a tripartite composition: an N-terminal non-repetitive domain, a highly repetitive central part composed of approximately 100 polyalanine/glycine rich co-segments and a C-terminal non-repetitive domain. Recent molecular data on the terminal domains suggest that these have different functions. The composite nature of spidroins allows for recombinant production of individual and combined regions. Miniaturized spidroins designed by linking the terminal domains with a limited number of repetitive segments recapitulate the properties of native spidroins to a surprisingly large extent, provided that they are produced and isolated in a manner that retains water solubility until fibre formation is triggered. Biocompatibility studies in cell culture or in vivo of native and recombinant spider silk indicate that they are surprisingly well tolerated, suggesting that recombinant spider silk has potential for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rising
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, The Biomedical Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 751-23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mona Widhe
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, The Biomedical Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 751-23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jan Johansson
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, The Biomedical Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 751-23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - My Hedhammar
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, The Biomedical Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 751-23 Uppsala, Sweden
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30
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Huang Z, Lu Y, Majithia R, Shah J, Meissner K, Matthews KS, Bondos SE, Lou J. Size dictates mechanical properties for protein fibers self-assembled by the Drosophila hox transcription factor ultrabithorax. Biomacromolecules 2010; 11:3644-51. [PMID: 21047055 DOI: 10.1021/bm1010992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The development of protein-based materials with diverse mechanical properties will facilitate the realization of a broad range of potential applications. The recombinant Drosophila melanogaster transcription factor Ultrabithorax self-assembles under mild conditions in aqueous buffers into extremely extensible materials. By controlling fiber diameter, both the mechanism of extension and the magnitude of the mechanical properties can be varied. Narrow Ultrabithorax fibers (diameter <10 μm) extend elastically, whereas the predominantly plastic deformation of wide fibers (diameter >15 μm) reflects the increase in breaking strain with increasing diameter, apparently due to a change in structure. The breaking stress/strain of the widest fibers resembles that of natural elastin. Intermediate fibers display mixed properties. Fiber bundles retain the mechanical properties of individual fibers but can withstand much larger forces. Controlling fiber size and generating fiber superstructures is a facile way to manipulate the mechanical characteristics of protein fibers and rationally engineer macroscale protein-based materials with desirable properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Huang
- Departments of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
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31
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Yang L, Hedhammar M, Blom T, Leifer K, Johansson J, Habibovic P, van Blitterswijk CA. Biomimetic calcium phosphate coatings on recombinant spider silk fibres. Biomed Mater 2010; 5:045002. [PMID: 20539057 DOI: 10.1088/1748-6041/5/4/045002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Calcium phosphate ceramic coatings, applied on surfaces of metallic and polymeric biomaterials, can improve their performance in bone repair and regeneration. Spider silk is biocompatible, strong and elastic, and hence an attractive biomaterial for applications in connective tissue repair. Recently, artificial spider silk, with mechanical and structural characteristics similar to those of native spider silk, has been produced from recombinant minispidroins. In the present study, supersaturated simulated body fluid was used to deposit calcium phosphate coatings on recombinant spider silk fibres. The mineralization process was followed in time using scanning electron microscopy equipped with an energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) detector and Raman spectroscope. Focused ion beam technology was used to produce a cross section of a coated fibre, which was further analysed by EDX. Preliminary in vitro experiments using a culture of bone marrow-derived human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) on coated fibres were also performed. This study showed that recombinant spider silk fibres were successfully coated with a homogeneous and thick crystalline calcium phosphate layer. In the course of the mineralization process from modified simulated body fluid, sodium chloride crystals were first deposited on the silk surface, followed by the deposition of a calcium phosphate layer. The coated silk fibres supported the attachment and growth of hMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Yang
- Department of Tissue Regeneration, University of Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
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32
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Fredriksson C, Hedhammar M, Feinstein R, Nordling K, Kratz G, Johansson J, Huss F, Rising A. Tissue Response to Subcutaneously Implanted Recombinant Spider Silk: An in Vivo Study. MATERIALS 2009. [PMCID: PMC5513568 DOI: 10.3390/ma2041908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Spider silk is an interesting biomaterial for medical applications. Recently, a method for production of recombinant spider silk protein (4RepCT) that forms macroscopic fibres in physiological solution was developed. Herein, 4RepCT and MersilkTM (control) fibres were implanted subcutaneously in rats for seven days, without any negative systemic or local reactions. The tissue response, characterised by infiltration of macrophages and multinucleated cells, was similar with both fibres, while only the 4RepCT-fibres supported ingrowth of fibroblasts and newly formed capillaries. This in vivo study indicates that 4RepCT-fibres are well tolerated and could be used for medical applications, e.g., tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Fredriksson
- Laboratory for Experimental Plastic Surgery, Institution of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, Linköpings Universitet, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden; E-Mail: (C.F.)
- Berzelius Clinical Research Center, Berzelius Science Park, 582 25 Linköping, Sweden
| | - My Hedhammar
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 575, the Biomedical Centre, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; E-Mail: (M.H.); (K.N.); (J.J.)
| | - Ricardo Feinstein
- National Veterinary Institute, 751 89 Uppsala, Sweden; E-Mail: (R.F.)
| | - Kerstin Nordling
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 575, the Biomedical Centre, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; E-Mail: (M.H.); (K.N.); (J.J.)
| | - Gunnar Kratz
- Department of Plastic-, Hand-, and Burn Surgery, University Hospital of Linköping, 581 85 Linköping, Sweden; E-Mail: (G.K.); (F.H.)
| | - Jan Johansson
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 575, the Biomedical Centre, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; E-Mail: (M.H.); (K.N.); (J.J.)
| | - Fredrik Huss
- Department of Plastic-, Hand-, and Burn Surgery, University Hospital of Linköping, 581 85 Linköping, Sweden; E-Mail: (G.K.); (F.H.)
| | - Anna Rising
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 575, the Biomedical Centre, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; E-Mail: (M.H.); (K.N.); (J.J.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +46-18-471-4019; Fax: +46-18-550-762
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Wang SSS, Chou SW, Liu KN, Wu CH. Effects of glutathione on amyloid fibrillation of hen egg-white lysozyme. Int J Biol Macromol 2009; 45:321-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2009.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2009] [Revised: 08/13/2009] [Accepted: 08/14/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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