1
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Sivas GG, Ünal İ, Gürel-Gökmen B, Emekli-Alturfan E, Tunalı Akbay T. Comparison of the developmental effects of lactase or bisphenol A antibody immobilized polycaprolactone/silk fibroin nanofibers on zebrafish embryos. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 191:114871. [PMID: 39029553 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114871] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to detect the biocompatibility of bioactivated polycaprolactone/silk fibroin-based nanofibers in vivo using zebrafish embryos. Anti-Bisphenol A (BPA) antibody or lactase enzyme was immobilized on electrospun nanofibers, for making the nanofiber bioactive. Lactase immobilized nanofiber was developed to hydrolyze lactose and produce milk with reduced lactose. Anti-BPA antibody immobilized nanofiber was developed to remove bisphenol A from liquids. To test the biocompatibility of the bioactive nanofibers, the zebrafish embryos were divided into 4 groups; control, raw nanofiber, lactase immobilized nanofiber, and anti-BPAantibody immobilized nanofiber groups. In nanofiber-based exposure groups; nanofibers were incubated separately in the embryonic development medium. Subsequently, the embryos were kept in these development mediums for 72 h post-fertilization (72 hpf) and their developmental analyzes were performed. At the end of 72 hpf, zebrafish embryos were homogenized. Lipid peroxidation and nitrite oxide levels, and superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-transferase activities were determined to monitor the disturbance of oxidant-antioxidant balance in zebrafish embryos. Exposure to bioactive nanofibers slightly disrupted the oxidant-antioxidant balance, but this change did not affect the mortality and hatching times of the embryos. In conclusion, zebrafish embryos have been effectively used in biocompatibility testing for bioactive nanofibers suggesting that these materials are biocompatible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Güzin Göksun Sivas
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İsmail Ünal
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Begüm Gürel-Gökmen
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ebru Emekli-Alturfan
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tuğba Tunalı Akbay
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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2
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Hu W, Peng Z, Lv J, Zhang Q, Wang X, Xia Q. Developmental and nuclear proteomic signatures characterize the temporal regulation of fibroin synthesis during the last molting-feeding transition of silkworm. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 274:133028. [PMID: 38857725 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133028] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Silkworm fibroins are natural proteinaceous macromolecules and provide core mechanical properties to silk fibers. The synthesis process of fibroins is posterior silk gland (PSG)-exclusive and appears active at the feeding stage and inactive at the molting stage. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling it remain elusive. Here, the silk gland's physiological and nuclear proteomic features were used to characterize changes in its structure and development from molting to feeding stages. The temporal expression profile and immunofluorescence analyses revealed a synchronous transcriptional on-off mode of fibroin genes. Next, the comparative nuclear proteome of the PSG during the last molting-feeding transition identified 798 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs), including 42 transcription factors and 15 epigenetic factors. Protein-protein interaction network analysis showed a "CTCF-FOX-HOX-SOX" association with activated expressions at the molting stage, suggesting a relatively complex and multifactorial regulation of the PSG at the molting stage. In addition, FAIRE-seq verification indicated "closed" and "open" conformations of fibroin gene promoters at the molting and feeding stages, respectively. Such proteome combined with chromatin accessibility analysis revealed the detailed signature of protein factors involved in the temporal regulation of fibroin synthesis and provided insights into silk gland development as well as silk production in silkworms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Hu
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Zhangchuan Peng
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Institute of Advanced Pathology, Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, China
| | - Jinfeng Lv
- Institute for Silk and Related Biomaterials Research, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Quan Zhang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xiaogang Wang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chongqing College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400065, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
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3
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Tan G, Jia T, Qi Z, Lu S. Regenerated Fiber's Ideal Target: Comparable to Natural Fiber. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:1834. [PMID: 38673192 PMCID: PMC11050933 DOI: 10.3390/ma17081834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The toughness of silk naturally obtained from spiders and silkworms exceeds that of all other natural and man-made fibers. These insects transform aqueous protein feedstocks into mechanically specialized materials, which represents an engineering phenomenon that has developed over millions of years of natural evolution. Silkworms have become a new research hotspot due to the difficulties in collecting spider silk and other challenges. According to continuous research on the natural spinning process of the silkworm, it is possible to divide the main aspects of bionic spinning into two main segments: the solvent and behavior. This work focuses on the various methods currently used for the spinning of artificial silk fibers to replicate natural silk fibers, providing new insights based on changes in the fiber properties and production processes over time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shenzhou Lu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (G.T.); (T.J.); (Z.Q.)
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4
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Wang X, Ye X, Guo J, Dai X, Yu S, Zhong B. Modeling the 3-dimensional structure of the silkworm's spinning apparatus in silk production. Acta Biomater 2024; 174:217-227. [PMID: 38030101 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.11.030] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The silk-spinning process of the silkworms transforms the liquid silk solution to a solid state under mild conditions, making it an attractive model for bioinspiration However, the precise mechanism behind silk expulsion remains largely unknown. Here we selected the silkworms as representative models to investigate the silk-spinning mechanism. We used serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM) to reconstruct the three-dimensional structures of the spinnerets in silkworms at various stages and with different gene backgrounds. By comparing the musculature and duct deformation of these spinneret models during the spinning process, we were able to simulate the morphological changes of the spinneret. Based on the results, we proposed three essential factors for silkworm spinning: the pressure generated by the silk gland, the opening duct, and the pulling force generated by head movement. Understanding the silkworm spinning process provides insights into clarify the fluid-ejecting mechanism of a group of animals. Moreover, these findings are helpful to the development of biomimetic spinning device that mimics the push-and-pull dual-force system in silkworms. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The silkworms' spinning system produces fibers under mild conditions, making it an ideal candidate for bioinspiration. However, the mechanism of silk expulsion is unknown, and the three-dimensional structure of the spinneret is still uncertain. In this study, we reconstructed a detailed 3-dimensional model of the spinneret at near-nanometer resolution, and for the first time, we observed the changes that occur before and during the silk-spinning process. Our reconstructed models suggested that silkworms have the ability to control the spinning process by opening or closing the spinning duct. During the continuously spinning period, both the pressure generated by the silk gland and the pulling force resulting from head movement work in tandem to expel the silk solution. We believe that gaining a full understanding of the spinning process steps can advance our ability to spin synthetic fibers with properties comparable to those of native fibers by mimicking the natural spinning process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinqiu Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058 Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, 310058 Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaogang Ye
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058 Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, 310058 Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jiansheng Guo
- Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310058 Hangzhou, China; Center of Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310058 Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangping Dai
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058 Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, 310058 Hangzhou, China
| | - Shihua Yu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058 Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, 310058 Hangzhou, China
| | - Boxiong Zhong
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 310058 Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, 310058 Hangzhou, China.
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5
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Matthew SL, Seib FP. Silk Bioconjugates: From Chemistry and Concept to Application. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:12-28. [PMID: 36706352 PMCID: PMC10777352 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Medical silks have captured global interest. While silk sutures have a long track record in humans, silk bioconjugates are still in preclinical development. This perspective examines key advances in silk bioconjugation, including the fabrication of silk-protein conjugates, bioconjugated silk particles, and bioconjugated substrates to enhance cell-material interactions in two and three dimensions. Many of these systems rely on chemical modification of the silk biopolymer, often using carbodiimide and reactive ester chemistries. However, recent progress in enzyme-mediated and click chemistries has expanded the molecular toolbox to enable biorthogonal, site-specific conjugation in a single step when combined with recombinant silk fibroin tagged with noncanonical amino acids. This perspective outlines key strategies available for chemical modification, compares the resulting silk conjugates to clinical benchmarks, and outlines open questions and areas that require more work. Overall, this assessment highlights a domain of new sunrise capabilities and development opportunities for silk bioconjugates that may ultimately offer new ways of delivering improved healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saphia
A. L. Matthew
- Strathclyde
Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0RE, U.K.
| | - F. Philipp Seib
- Strathclyde
Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0RE, U.K.
- Branch
Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular
Biology and Applied Ecology, Ohlebergsweg 12, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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6
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Mu X, Amouzandeh R, Vogts H, Luallen E, Arzani M. A brief review on the mechanisms and approaches of silk spinning-inspired biofabrication. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1252499. [PMID: 37744248 PMCID: PMC10512026 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1252499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Silk spinning, observed in spiders and insects, exhibits a remarkable biological source of inspiration for advanced polymer fabrications. Because of the systems design, silk spinning represents a holistic and circular approach to sustainable polymer fabrication, characterized by renewable resources, ambient and aqueous processing conditions, and fully recyclable "wastes." Also, silk spinning results in structures that are characterized by the combination of monolithic proteinaceous composition and mechanical strength, as well as demonstrate tunable degradation profiles and minimal immunogenicity, thus making it a viable alternative to most synthetic polymers for the development of advanced biomedical devices. However, the fundamental mechanisms of silk spinning remain incompletely understood, thus impeding the efforts to harness the advantageous properties of silk spinning. Here, we present a concise and timely review of several essential features of silk spinning, including the molecular designs of silk proteins and the solvent cues along the spinning apparatus. The solvent cues, including salt ions, pH, and water content, are suggested to direct the hierarchical assembly of silk proteins and thus play a central role in silk spinning. We also discuss several hypotheses on the roles of solvent cues to provide a relatively comprehensive analysis and to identify the current knowledge gap. We then review the state-of-the-art bioinspired fabrications with silk proteins, including fiber spinning and additive approaches/three-dimensional (3D) printing. An emphasis throughout the article is placed on the universal characteristics of silk spinning developed through millions of years of individual evolution pathways in spiders and silkworms. This review serves as a stepping stone for future research endeavors, facilitating the in vitro recapitulation of silk spinning and advancing the field of bioinspired polymer fabrication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Mu
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
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7
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Kamada A, Toprakcioglu Z, Knowles TPJ. Kinetic Analysis Reveals the Role of Secondary Nucleation in Regenerated Silk Fibroin Self-Assembly. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:1709-1716. [PMID: 36926854 PMCID: PMC10091410 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Silk proteins obtained from the Bombyx mori silkworm have been extensively studied due to their remarkable mechanical properties. One of the major structural components of this complex material is silk fibroin, which can be isolated and processed further in vitro to form artificial functional materials. Due to the excellent biocompatibility and rich self-assembly behavior, there has been sustained interest in such materials formed through the assembly of regenerated silk fibroin feedstocks. The molecular mechanisms by which the soluble regenerated fibroin molecules self-assemble into protein nanofibrils remain, however, largely unknown. Here, we use the framework of chemical kinetics to connect macroscopic measurements of regenerated silk fibroin self-assembly to the underlying microscopic mechanisms. Our results reveal that the aggregation of regenerated silk fibroin is dominated by a nonclassical secondary nucleation processes, where the formation of new fibrils is catalyzed by the existing aggregates in an autocatalytic manner. Such secondary nucleation pathways were originally discovered in the context of polymerization of disease-associated proteins, but the present results demonstrate that this pathway can also occur in functional assembly. Furthermore, our results show that shear flow induces the formation of nuclei, which subsequently accelerate the process of aggregation through an autocatalytic amplification driven by the secondary nucleation pathway. Taken together, these results allow us to identify the parameters governing the kinetics of regenerated silk fibroin self-assembly and expand our current understanding of the spinning of bioinspired protein-based fibers, which have a wide range of applications in materials science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaka Kamada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K
| | - Zenon Toprakcioglu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K
| | - Tuomas P J Knowles
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.,Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0FE, U.K
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8
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Yazawa K, Iwata S, Gotoh Y. Wild Silkworm Cocoon Waste Conversion into Tough Regenerated Silk Fibers by Solution Spinning. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:1700-1708. [PMID: 36917682 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Wild silkworm silk fibers have garnered attention owing to their softness, natural color, lightweight, and excellent mechanical properties. Because most wild silkworm cocoons obtained are pierced or dirty after the eclosion process, it is difficult to reel the long filament from the pierced cocoons to use as textile materials. Therefore, damaged wild silkworm cocoons are typically removed during the industrial process. Artificial silk spinning has been developed to transform domesticated silkworm silk solutions into regenerated silk fibers. However, regenerated fibers derived from wild silkworm silk have not been reported. Here, we produced regenerated silk fibers using a dry-wet spinning method using a dope solution derived from wild silkworm silk cocoon wastes. These regenerated silk fibers have thick and uniform diameters, unlike native silk fibers, contributing to their usefulness for sterilization and handling in medical applications. Moreover, they exhibited the same level of mechanical strength as their native counterparts. The molecular orientation and crystallinity of the regenerated silk fibers were adjustable by the drawing process, enabling the realization of their various tensile properties. This study promotes the utilization of unused protein resources to produce mechanically stable and tough silk-based fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenjiro Yazawa
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan.,Division of Biological and Medical Fibers, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research, Institute for Fiber Engineering, Shinshu University, 3-15-1, Tokida, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Iwata
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
| | - Yasuo Gotoh
- Division of Biological and Medical Fibers, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research, Institute for Fiber Engineering, Shinshu University, 3-15-1, Tokida, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
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9
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Chen T, Peng Y, Qiu M, Yi C, Xu Z. Protein-supported transition metal catalysts: Preparation, catalytic applications, and prospects. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 230:123206. [PMID: 36638614 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123206] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The immobilization of transition metal catalysts onto supports enables their easier recycling and improves catalytic performance. Protein supports not only support and stabilize transition metal catalysts but also enable the incorporation of biocompatibility and enzymatic catalysis into these catalysts. Consequently, the engineering of protein-supported transition metal catalysts (PTMCs) has emerged as an effective approach to improving their catalytic performance and widening their catalytic applications. Here, we review the recent development of the preparation and applications of PTMCs. The preparation of PTMCs will be summarized and discussed in terms of the types of protein supports, including proteins, protein assemblies, protein-polymer conjugates, and cross-linked proteins. Then, their catalytic applications including organic synthesis, photocatalysis, polymerization, and biomedicine, will be surveyed and compared. Meanwhile, the established catalytic structures-function relationships will be summarized. Lastly, the remaining issues and prospects will be discussed. By surveying a wide range of PTMCs, we believe that this review will attract a broad readership and stimulate the development of PTMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyou Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Yan Peng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Meishuang Qiu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Changfeng Yi
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Zushun Xu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China.
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10
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Hu W, Jia A, Ma S, Zhang G, Wei Z, Lu F, Luo Y, Zhang Z, Sun J, Yang T, Xia T, Li Q, Yao T, Zheng J, Jiang Z, Xu Z, Xia Q, Wang Y. A molecular atlas reveals the tri-sectional spinning mechanism of spider dragline silk. Nat Commun 2023; 14:837. [PMID: 36792670 PMCID: PMC9932165 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36545-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of natural silk production in the spider major ampullate (Ma) gland endows dragline silk with extraordinary mechanical properties and the potential for biomimetic applications. However, the precise genetic roles of the Ma gland during this process remain unknown. Here, we performed a systematic molecular atlas of dragline silk production through a high-quality genome assembly for the golden orb-weaving spider Trichonephila clavata and a multiomics approach to defining the Ma gland tri-sectional architecture: Tail, Sac, and Duct. We uncovered a hierarchical biosynthesis of spidroins, organic acids, lipids, and chitin in the sectionalized Ma gland dedicated to fine silk constitution. The ordered secretion of spidroins was achieved by the synergetic regulation of epigenetic and ceRNA signatures for genomic group-distributed spidroin genes. Single-cellular and spatial RNA profiling identified ten cell types with partitioned functional division determining the tri-sectional organization of the Ma gland. Convergence analysis and genetic manipulation further validated that this tri-sectional architecture of the silk gland was analogous across Arthropoda and inextricably linked with silk formation. Collectively, our study provides multidimensional data that significantly expand the knowledge of spider dragline silk generation and ultimately benefit innovation in spider-inspired fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Anqiang Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Sanyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Guoqing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zhaoyuan Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Fang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yongjiang Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zhisheng Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jiahe Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Tianfang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - TingTing Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Qinhui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Ting Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jiangyu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zijie Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zehui Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Qingyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Yi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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11
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Semmler L, Naghilou A, Millesi F, Wolf S, Mann A, Stadlmayr S, Mero S, Ploszczanski L, Greutter L, Woehrer A, Placheta-Györi E, Vollrath F, Weiss T, Radtke C. Silk-in-Silk Nerve Guidance Conduits Enhance Regeneration in a Rat Sciatic Nerve Injury Model. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2203237. [PMID: 36683305 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Advanced nerve guidance conduits can provide an off-the-shelf alternative to autografts for the rehabilitation of segmental peripheral nerve injuries. In this study, the excellent processing ability of silk fibroin and the outstanding cell adhesion quality of spider dragline silk are combined to generate a silk-in-silk conduit for nerve repair. Fibroin-based silk conduits (SC) are characterized, and Schwann cells are seeded on the conduits and spider silk. Rat sciatic nerve (10 mm) defects are treated with an autograft (A), an empty SC, or a SC filled with longitudinally aligned spider silk fibers (SSC) for 14 weeks. Functional recovery, axonal re-growth, and re-myelination are assessed. The material characterizations determine a porous nature of the conduit. Schwann cells accept the conduit and spider silk as growth substrate. The in vivo results show a significantly faster functional regeneration of the A and SSC group compared to the SC group. In line with the functional results, the histomorphometrical analysis determines a comparable axon density of the A and SSC groups, which is significantly higher than the SC group. These findings demonstrate that the here introduced silk-in-silk nerve conduit achieves a similar regenerative performance as autografts largely due to the favorable guiding properties of spider dragline silk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenz Semmler
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria.,Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, 1200, Austria
| | - Aida Naghilou
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Flavia Millesi
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria.,Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, 1200, Austria
| | - Sonja Wolf
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Anda Mann
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Sarah Stadlmayr
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Sascha Mero
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Leon Ploszczanski
- Institute of Physics and Materials Science, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Gregor-Medel-Straße 33, Vienna, 1180, Austria
| | - Lisa Greutter
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Adelheid Woehrer
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Eva Placheta-Györi
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Fritz Vollrath
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Rd., Oxford, OX1 3SZ, UK
| | - Tamara Weiss
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria.,Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, 1200, Austria
| | - Christine Radtke
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, Vienna, 1090, Austria.,Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, 1200, Austria
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12
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Bono N, Saroglia G, Marcuzzo S, Giagnorio E, Lauria G, Rosini E, De Nardo L, Athanassiou A, Candiani G, Perotto G. Silk fibroin microgels as a platform for cell microencapsulation. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2022; 34:3. [PMID: 36586059 PMCID: PMC9805413 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-022-06706-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cell microencapsulation has been utilized for years as a means of cell shielding from the external environment while facilitating the transport of gases, general metabolites, and secretory bioactive molecules at once. In this light, hydrogels may support the structural integrity and functionality of encapsulated biologics whereas ensuring cell viability and function and releasing potential therapeutic factors once in situ. In this work, we describe a straightforward strategy to fabricate silk fibroin (SF) microgels (µgels) and encapsulate cells into them. SF µgels (size ≈ 200 µm) were obtained through ultrasonication-induced gelation of SF in a water-oil emulsion phase. A thorough physicochemical (SEM analysis, and FT-IR) and mechanical (microindentation tests) characterization of SF µgels were carried out to assess their nanostructure, porosity, and stiffness. SF µgels were used to encapsulate and culture L929 and primary myoblasts. Interestingly, SF µgels showed a selective release of relatively small proteins (e.g., VEGF, molecular weight, MW = 40 kDa) by the encapsulated primary myoblasts, while bigger (macro)molecules (MW = 160 kDa) were hampered to diffusing through the µgels. This article provided the groundwork to expand the use of SF hydrogels into a versatile platform for encapsulating relevant cells able to release paracrine factors potentially regulating tissue and/or organ functions, thus promoting their regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Bono
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Via Mancinelli 7, 20131, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giulio Saroglia
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Via Mancinelli 7, 20131, Milan, Italy
- Smart Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Stefania Marcuzzo
- Neurology IV-Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Giagnorio
- Neurology IV-Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Rosini
- The Protein Factory 2.0, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - Luigi De Nardo
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Via Mancinelli 7, 20131, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Candiani
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Via Mancinelli 7, 20131, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Perotto
- Smart Materials, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy.
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13
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Buhl-Mortensen L, Neuhaus J, Williams JD. Gorgonophilus canadensis (Copepoda: Lamippidae) a parasite in the octocoral Paragorgia arborea – relation to host, reproduction, and morphology. Symbiosis 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13199-022-00866-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The family Lamippidae (Cyclopoida) are endosymbionts mainly occurring in shallow water octocorals and records from deep-sea corals are few. Here we investigated the relationship between the lamippid Gorgonophilus canadensis Buhl-Mortensen & Mortensen, 2004 and its host the deep-sea coral Paragorgia arborea. Twenty-one specimens of G. canadensis was found inside eight gall-like structures on a P. arborea colony collected in 2010 at 318 m depth off Norway. The galls contained on average 1.6 females, 1.0 males, and 7.5 egg sacs estimated to contain 400 eggs each. Females were larger than males (4.6 mm compared to 2.0 mm). The gall volume increased with the number of egg sacs, females, and the length of females inside, the latter correlation was significant (p < 0.05). The number of egg sacs in galls was positively correlated with the abundance and length of females (p < 0.05), and by adding Canadian data from 17 galls the relation between egg sacs and numbers of females and males in galls became stronger (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). Scanning electron microscopy revealed that this highly modified endoparasite has thoracic appendages with non-segmented flexible spines with a specialized structure at their tips through which threads are excreted. We speculate that this adaptation could relate to feeding or attachment of egg sacs inside the galls. Thread production has rarely been reported for copepods and we explore its function in the group as well as other crustaceans. The age and size of the parasite, and the introduction to and release from the host is also discussed.
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14
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Bittencourt DMDC, Oliveira P, Michalczechen-Lacerda VA, Rosinha GMS, Jones JA, Rech EL. Bioengineering of spider silks for the production of biomedical materials. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:958486. [PMID: 36017345 PMCID: PMC9397580 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.958486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider silks are well known for their extraordinary mechanical properties. This characteristic is a result of the interplay of composition, structure and self-assembly of spider silk proteins (spidroins). Advances in synthetic biology have enabled the design and production of spidroins with the aim of biomimicking the structure-property-function relationships of spider silks. Although in nature only fibers are formed from spidroins, in vitro, scientists can explore non-natural morphologies including nanofibrils, particles, capsules, hydrogels, films or foams. The versatility of spidroins, along with their biocompatible and biodegradable nature, also placed them as leading-edge biological macromolecules for improved drug delivery and various biomedical applications. Accordingly, in this review, we highlight the relationship between the molecular structure of spider silk and its mechanical properties and aims to provide a critical summary of recent progress in research employing recombinantly produced bioengineered spidroins for the production of innovative bio-derived structural materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Matias de C. Bittencourt
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, National Institute of Science and Technology—Synthetic Biology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Paula Oliveira
- Department of Biology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | | | - Grácia Maria Soares Rosinha
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, National Institute of Science and Technology—Synthetic Biology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Justin A. Jones
- Department of Biology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | - Elibio L. Rech
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, National Institute of Science and Technology—Synthetic Biology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
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15
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Recent Research Progress of Ionic Liquid Dissolving Silks for Biomedicine and Tissue Engineering Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158706. [PMID: 35955840 PMCID: PMC9369158 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ionic liquids (ILs) show a bright application prospect in the field of biomedicine and energy materials due to their unique recyclable, modifiability, structure of cation and anion adjustability, as well as excellent physical and chemical properties. Dissolving silk fibroin (SF), from different species silkworm cocoons, with ILs is considered an effective new way to obtain biomaterials with highly enhanced/tailored properties, which can significantly overcome the shortcomings of traditional preparation methods, such as the cumbersome, time-consuming and the organic toxicity caused by manufacture. In this paper, the basic structure and properties of SF and the preparation methods of traditional regenerated SF solution are first introduced. Then, the dissolving mechanism and main influencing factors of ILs for SF are expounded, and the fabrication methods, material structure and properties of SF blending with natural biological protein, inorganic matter, synthetic polymer, carbon nanotube and graphene oxide in the ILs solution system are introduced. Additionally, our work summarizes the biomedicine and tissue engineering applications of silk-based materials dissolved through various ILs. Finally, according to the deficiency of ILs for dissolving SF at a high melting point and expensive cost, their further study and future development trend are prospected.
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16
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Asakura T, Naito A. Structure of silk I (Bombyx mori silk fibroin before spinning) in the dry and hydrated states studied using 13C solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 216:282-290. [PMID: 35788005 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.06.192] [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: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, much attention has been paid to Bombyx mori silk fibroin (SF) by many researchers because of excellent physical properties and biocompatibility. These superior properties originate from the structure of SF and therefore, the structural analysis is a key to clarify the superiority. Here we concentrated on silk I structure (SF structure before spinning). We showed that silk I* (the structure of (GAGAGS)n which is a main part of SF) is a repeated type II β-turn, neither α-helix nor random coil, from the conformation-dependent 13C NMR chemical shift data. This conclusion is different from that obtained using IR by many researchers. Next, the formation of silk I* structure was investigated at molecular level using 13C solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Three kinds of 13C INEPT, CP/MAS and DD/MAS NMR spectra were observed for SF, [3-13C] Ser- and [3-13C] Tyr-SF, the crystalline fraction obtained by chymotrypsin treatment of SF and their model peptide with silk I structures in the dry and hydrated states. Especially, the presence of the sequences containing Tyr, (((GX)m1GY)m2 where X = A or V) with random coil conformations adjacent to (GAGAGS)n is an essence to get water-soluble SF and the formation of silk I* structure of (GAGAGS)n.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuo Asakura
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan.
| | - Akira Naito
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
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17
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Abstract
![]()
The tiny spider makes
dragline silk fibers with unbeatable toughness,
all under the most innocuous conditions. Scientists have persistently
tried to emulate its natural silk spinning process using recombinant
proteins with a view toward creating a new wave of smart materials,
yet most efforts have fallen short of attaining the native fiber’s
excellent mechanical properties. One reason for these shortcomings
may be that artificial spider silk systems tend to be overly simplified
and may not sufficiently take into account the true complexity of
the underlying protein sequences and of the multidimensional aspects
of the natural self-assembly process that give rise to the hierarchically
structured fibers. Here, we discuss recent findings regarding the
material constituents of spider dragline silk, including novel spidroin
subtypes, nonspidroin proteins, and possible involvement of post-translational
modifications, which together suggest a complexity that transcends
the two-component MaSp1/MaSp2 system. We subsequently consider insights
into the spidroin domain functions, structures, and overall mechanisms
for the rapid transition from disordered soluble protein into a highly
organized fiber, including the possibility of viewing spider silk
self-assembly through a framework relevant to biomolecular condensates.
Finally, we consider the concept of “biomimetics” as
it applies to artificial spider silk production with a focus on key
practical aspects of design and evaluation that may hopefully inform
efforts to more closely reproduce the remarkable structure and function
of the native silk fiber using artificial methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali D Malay
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Hamish C Craig
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Jianming Chen
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Nur Alia Oktaviani
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Keiji Numata
- Biomacromolecules Research Team, Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan.,Department of Material Chemistry, Kyoto University, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
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18
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Yazawa K, Tatebayashi Y, Kajiura Z. Eri silkworm spins mechanically robust silk fibers regardless of reeling speed. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:274025. [PMID: 35037048 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.243458] [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: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Wild silkworms survive in the environmental habitats in which temperature and humidity vary based on weather. In contrast, domesticated silkworms live in mild environments where temperature and humidity are generally maintained at constant levels. Previous studies showed that the mechanical strengths and molecular orientation of the silk fibers reeled from domesticated silkworms are significantly influenced by the reeling speed. Here we investigated the effects of the reeling speeds on the mechanical properties of eri silk fibers produced by wild silkworms, Samia cynthia ricini, which belong to the family of Saturniidae. We found that the structural, morphological, and mechanical features of eri silk fibers are maintained irrespective of the reeling speed in contrast to those of domesticated silkworm silk fibers. The obtained results are useful not only for understanding the biological basis underlying the natural formation of silk fibers but also for contributing to the design of artificial spinning systems for producing synthetic silk fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenjiro Yazawa
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda City, Nagano 386-8567, Japan.,Division of Biological and Medical Fiber, Institute for Fiber Engineering, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda City, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
| | - Yuka Tatebayashi
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda City, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
| | - Zenta Kajiura
- Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda City, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
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19
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Cretenoud J, Giffin M, Özen B, Fadaei-Tirani F, Scopelliti R, Plummer CJG, Frauenrath H. Semiaromatic Polyamides with Re-Entrant Chain Folding Templated by “U-Turn” Repeat Units. Macromolecules 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.1c01867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julien Cretenoud
- Institute of Materials, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Giffin
- Institute of Materials, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bilal Özen
- Institute of Materials, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Farzaneh Fadaei-Tirani
- Institute of Chemical Science and Engineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rosario Scopelliti
- Institute of Chemical Science and Engineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Holger Frauenrath
- Institute of Materials, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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20
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Asakura T, Ibe Y, Jono T, Naito A. Structure and dynamics of biodegradable polyurethane-silk fibroin composite materials in the dry and hydrated states studied using 13C solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Polym Degrad Stab 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2021.109645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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21
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Shu T, Lv Z, Chen CT, Gu GX, Ren J, Cao L, Pei Y, Ling S, Kaplan DL. Mechanical Training-Driven Structural Remodeling: A Rational Route for Outstanding Highly Hydrated Silk Materials. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2102660. [PMID: 34288406 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202102660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Highly hydrated silk materials (HHSMs) have been the focus of extensive research due to their usefulness in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and soft devices, among other fields. However, HHSMs have weak mechanical properties that limit their practical applications. Inspired by the mechanical training-driven structural remodeling strategy (MTDSRS) in biological tissues, herein, engineered MTDSRS is developed for self-reinforcement of HHSMs to improve their inherent mechanical properties and broaden potential utility. The MTDSRS consists of repetitive mechanical training and solvent-induced conformation transitions. Solvent-induced conformation transition enables the formation of β-sheet physical crosslinks among the proteins, while the repetitive mechanical loading allows the rearrangement of physically crosslinked proteins along the loading direction. Such synergistic effects produce strong and stiff mechanically trained-HHSMs (MT-HHSMs). The fracture strength and Young's modulus of the resultant MT-HHSMs (water content of 43 ± 4%) reach 4.7 ± 0.9 and 21.3 ± 2.1 MPa, respectively, which are 8-fold stronger and 13-fold stiffer than those of the as-prepared HHSMs, as well as superior to most previously reported HHSMs with comparable water content. In addition, the animal silk-like highly oriented molecular crosslinking network structure also provides MT-HHSMs with fascinating physical and functional features, such as stress-birefringence responsibility, humidity-induced actuation, and repeatable self-folding deformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Shu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Zhuochen Lv
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Chun-Teh Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Grace X Gu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Jing Ren
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Leitao Cao
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Ying Pei
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Shengjie Ling
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
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22
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Wan Q, Yang M, Hu J, Lei F, Shuai Y, Wang J, Holland C, Rodenburg C, Yang M. Mesoscale structure development reveals when a silkworm silk is spun. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3711. [PMID: 34140492 PMCID: PMC8211695 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23960-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Silk fibre mechanical properties are attributed to the development of a multi-scale hierarchical structure during spinning. By careful ex vivo processing of a B. mori silkworm silk solution we arrest the spinning process, freezing-in mesoscale structures corresponding to three distinctive structure development stages; gelation, fibrilization and the consolidation phase identified in this work, a process highlighted by the emergence and extinction of 'water pockets'. These transient water pockets are a manifestation of the interplay between protein dehydration, phase separation and nanofibril assembly, with their removal due to nanofibril coalescence during consolidation. We modeled and validated how post-draw improves mechanical properties and refines a silk's hierarchical structure as a result of consolidation. These insights enable a better understanding of the sequence of events that occur during spinning, ultimately leading us to propose a robust definition of when a silkworm silk is actually 'spun'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Wan
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mei Yang
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Hu
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fang Lei
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yajun Shuai
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Wang
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chris Holland
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Cornelia Rodenburg
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Mingying Yang
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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23
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Lv Z, Shu T, Ren J, Cao L, Pei Y, Shao Z, Ling S. Mechanism of Mechanical Training-Induced Self-Reinforced Viscoelastic Behavior of Highly Hydrated Silk Materials. Biomacromolecules 2021; 22:2189-2196. [PMID: 33852291 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c00263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical training is an operation where a sample is cyclically stretched in a solvent. It is accepted as an effective strategy to strengthen and stiffen the highly hydrated silk materials (HHSMs). However, the detailed reinforcement mechanism of the process still remains to be understood. Herein, this process is studied by the integration of experimental characterization and theoretical analysis. The results from time-resolved Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and real-time birefringent characterization reveal that the silk proteins rapidly formed a molecular cross-linking network (MCN) during the mechanical training. The cross-links were the β-sheet nanocrystals generated from the conformation transition of silk proteins. With the progress in mechanical training, these MCNs gradually remodeled to a highly oriented molecular network structure. The final structure of the silk proteins in HHSMs is highly similar to the structural organization of silk proteins in the natural animal silk. The training process significantly improved the mechanical strength and modulus of the material. With regards to the dynamic behavior of conformation transition and MCN orientation, the structural evaluation of silk proteins during mechanical training was divided into three distinct stages, namely, the MCN-forming stage, MCN-orienting stage, and oriented-MCN stage. Such division is in complete agreement with the three-stage viscoelastic behavior observed in the cyclic loading and unloading tests. Hence, a five-parameter viscoelastic model has been established to elucidate the structure-property relationship of these three stages. This work improves in-depth understanding of the fundamental issues related to structure-property relationships of HHSMs and thus provides inspiration and guidance in the design of soft silk functional materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuochen Lv
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Ting Shu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Jing Ren
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Leitao Cao
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Ying Pei
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhengzhong Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Shengjie Ling
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
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24
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Farokhi M, Aleemardani M, Solouk A, Mirzadeh H, Teuschl AH, Redl H. Crosslinking strategies for silk fibroin hydrogels: promising biomedical materials. Biomed Mater 2021; 16:022004. [PMID: 33594992 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/abb615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Due to their strong biomimetic potential, silk fibroin (SF) hydrogels are impressive candidates for tissue engineering, due to their tunable mechanical properties, biocompatibility, low immunotoxicity, controllable biodegradability, and a remarkable capacity for biomaterial modification and the realization of a specific molecular structure. The fundamental chemical and physical structure of SF allows its structure to be altered using various crosslinking strategies. The established crosslinking methods enable the formation of three-dimensional (3D) networks under physiological conditions. There are different chemical and physical crosslinking mechanisms available for the generation of SF hydrogels (SFHs). These methods, either chemical or physical, change the structure of SF and improve its mechanical stability, although each method has its advantages and disadvantages. While chemical crosslinking agents guarantee the mechanical strength of SFH through the generation of covalent bonds, they could cause some toxicity, and their usage is not compatible with a cell-friendly technology. On the other hand, physical crosslinking approaches have been implemented in the absence of chemical solvents by the induction of β-sheet conformation in the SF structure. Unfortunately, it is not easy to control the shape and properties of SFHs when using this method. The current review discusses the different crosslinking mechanisms of SFH in detail, in order to support the development of engineered SFHs for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Farokhi
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran. Maryam Farokhi and Mina Aleemardani contributed equally
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25
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Zhang X, Ries ME, Hine PJ. Time-Temperature Superposition of the Dissolution of Silk Fibers in the Ionic Liquid 1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium Acetate. Biomacromolecules 2021; 22:1091-1101. [PMID: 33560832 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c01467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the dissolution of silk multifilament fibers in the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate. The dissolution process was found to create a silk composite fiber, comprising undissolved silk multifilaments surrounded by a coagulated silk matrix. The dissolution procedure was carried out for a range of temperatures and times. The resulting composite fibers were studied using a combination of optical microscopy, wide-angle X-ray diffraction (XRD), and tensile testing. An azimuthal (α) XRD scan enabled the orientation of the composite silk filaments to be quantified through a second Legendre polynomial function (P2). The P2 results could be shifted to construct a single master curve using time-temperature superposition (TTS). The shifting factors were found to have an Arrhenius behavior with an activation energy of 138 ± 13 kJ/mol. Using a simple rule of mixtures, the P2 measurements were used to calculate the dissolved silk matrix volume fraction (Vm), which also displayed TTS forming a single master curve with an activation energy of 139 ± 15 kJ/mol. The tensile Young's modulus of each silk composite filament was measured, and these results similarly formed a master curve with an activation energy of 116 ± 12 kJ/mol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Soft Matter Physics Research Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Michael E Ries
- Soft Matter Physics Research Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J Hine
- Soft Matter Physics Research Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
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26
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Hu L, Chen Q, Yao J, Shao Z, Chen X. Structural Changes in Spider Dragline Silk after Repeated Supercontraction-Stretching Processes. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:5306-5314. [PMID: 33206498 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c01378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Spider dragline silk is well-known for its excellent combination of strength and extensibility as well as another unique property called supercontraction. In our previous work, the changes in conformations of the Nephila edulis spider dragline silk when subjected to different supercontraction processes were extensively investigated. When a native spider dragline silk had free supercontraction, and then restretched to its original length, the content and molecular orientation of different conformations (β-sheet, helix, and random coil) changed but the mechanical properties remained almost the same. Therefore, herein, further supercontraction-stretching treatment was performed up to three cycles, and the corresponding structural changes were investigated. In addition to the synchrotron radiation FTIR (S-FTIR) microspectroscopy employed in our previous study, synchrotron radiation small-angle X-ray scattering (S-SAXS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were also used in this work to determine the structural changes of spider dragline silk in different scales. The results show that by repeating the supercontraction-stretching treatment, the β-sheet structure content in spider dragline silk was slightly increased, but its orientation degree remained almost the same. Also, with the increase in cycle of supercontraction-stretching treatments, a 10.5 nm long period perpendicular to the silk fiber axis gradually appeared, endowing the spider dragline silk with periodic structure both along (6.6 nm, already existed in native silk and did not change with the supercontraction-stretching treatment) and perpendicular to the silk fiber axis. After the third supercontraction-stretching cycle, the AFM images displayed a clear 210 nm × 80 nm corn kernel-like structure on the surface of nanofibrils in spider dragline silks, which may be related to the aggregation of 10.5 nm × 6.6 nm periodic structure observed via S-SAXS. Finally, although the structure of spider dragline silk became increasingly regular with the rise in supercontraction-stretching cycles, mechanical properties remained constant after every cycle of the supercontraction-stretching treatment. These findings can aid in further understanding the structural changes that are related to the supercontraction of spider dragline silk and provide useful guidance in fabrication of high-performance regenerated or artificial silk fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linli Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianying Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinrong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengzhong Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
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27
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Oral CB, Yetiskin B, Okay O. Stretchable silk fibroin hydrogels. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 161:1371-1380. [PMID: 32791264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Hydrogels derived from silk fibroin (SF) are attractive soft materials in biomedical applications such as drug delivery and tissue engineering. However, SF hydrogels reported so far are generally brittle in tension limiting their load-bearing applications. We present here a novel strategy for preparing stretchable SF hydrogels by incorporating flexible polymer chains into the brittle SF network, which strengthen the interconnections between SF globules. We included N, N-dimethylacrylamide (DMAA) monomer and ammonium persulfate initiator into an aqueous SF solution containing a diepoxide cross-linker to in situ generate flexible poly (N,N-dimethylacrylamide) (PDMAA) chains. Moreover, instead of SF, methacrylated SF was used for the gel preparation to create an interconnected SF/PDMAA network. The free-radical polymerization of DMAA leads to the formation of PDMAA chains interconnecting globular SF molecules via their pendant vinyl groups. Incorporation of 2 w/v% DMAA into the SF network turns the brittle hydrogel into a stretchable one sustaining up to 370% elongation ratio. The mechanical properties of SF hydrogels could be adjusted by the amount of PDMAA incorporated into the SF network. The stretchable and tough SF hydrogels thus developed are suitable as a scaffold in tissue engineering and offer an advantage as a biomaterial over other SF-based biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- C B Oral
- Department of Chemistry, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - B Yetiskin
- Department of Chemistry, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - O Okay
- Department of Chemistry, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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28
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Sarkar A, Edson C, Tian D, Fink TD, Cianciotti K, Gross RA, Bae C, Zha RH. Rapid Synthesis of Silk-Like Polymers Facilitated by Microwave Irradiation and Click Chemistry. Biomacromolecules 2020; 22:95-105. [PMID: 32902261 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c00563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Silk is a natural fiber that surpasses most man-made polymers in its combination of strength and toughness. Silk fibroin, the primary protein component of silk, can be synthetically mimicked by a linear copolymer with alternating rigid and soft segments. Strategies for chemical synthesis of such silk-like polymers have persistently resulted in poor sequence control, long reaction times, and low molecular weights. Here, we present a two-stage approach for rapidly synthesizing silk-like polymers with precisely defined rigid blocks. This approach utilizes solid-phase peptide synthesis to create uniform oligoalanine "prepolymers", followed by microwave-assisted step-growth polymerization with bifunctional poly(ethylene glycol). Multiple coupling chemistries and reaction conditions were explored, with microwave-assisted click chemistry yielding polymers with Mw ∼ 14 kg/mol in less than 20 min. These polymers formed antiparallel β-sheets and nanofibers, which is consistent with the structure of natural silk fibroin. Thus, our strategy demonstrates a promising modular approach for synthesizing silk-like polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Sarkar
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Cody Edson
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Ding Tian
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Tanner D Fink
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Katherine Cianciotti
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Richard A Gross
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Chulsung Bae
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - R Helen Zha
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
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29
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Feng Y, Lin J, Niu L, Wang Y, Cheng Z, Sun X, Li M. High Molecular Weight Silk Fibroin Prepared by Papain Degumming. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2105. [PMID: 32947834 PMCID: PMC7570354 DOI: 10.3390/polym12092105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A major challenge for the silk textile industry and for the process of silk-based biomaterials is to find a degumming method that can completely remove sericin while avoiding obvious hydrolysis damage to the silk fibroin. In this study, papain was used to degum Bombyx mori silk fibers under nearly neutral conditions based on the specificity of papain to sericin. The degumming efficiency was investigated, as well as the mechanical properties and molecular weight of the sericin-free silk fibroin. The results indicated that increasing the papain concentration aided in sericin removal, as the concentration increased to 3.0 g/L, the degummed fibers showed a clean, smooth surface morphology and exhibited a yellow color when stained by picric acid and carmine, confirming the complete removal of sericin from silk fibroin. Furthermore, an analysis of the amino acid composition indicated that the silk fibroin suffered less damage because papain specifically cleaved the binding sites between L-arginine or L-lysine residue and another amino acid residue in sericin, leading to a significantly higher molecular weight and improved tensile strength compared to traditional sodium carbonate degumming. This study provides a novel degumming method which cannot only completely remove sericin, but also maintain the original strong mechanical properties and high molecular weight of silk fibroin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mingzhong Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (Y.F.); (J.L.); (L.N.); (Y.W.); (Z.C.); (X.S.)
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30
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Hybrid Spider Silk with Inorganic Nanomaterials. NANOMATERIALS 2020; 10:nano10091853. [PMID: 32947954 PMCID: PMC7559941 DOI: 10.3390/nano10091853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
High-performance functional biomaterials are becoming increasingly requested. Numerous natural and artificial polymers have already demonstrated their ability to serve as a basis for bio-composites. Spider silk offers a unique combination of desirable aspects such as biocompatibility, extraordinary mechanical properties, and tunable biodegradability, which are superior to those of most natural and engineered materials. Modifying spider silk with various inorganic nanomaterials with specific properties has led to the development of the hybrid materials with improved functionality. The purpose of using these inorganic nanomaterials is primarily due to their chemical nature, enhanced by large surface areas and quantum size phenomena. Functional properties of nanoparticles can be implemented to macro-scale components to produce silk-based hybrid materials, while spider silk fibers can serve as a matrix to combine the benefits of the functional components. Therefore, it is not surprising that hybrid materials based on spider silk and inorganic nanomaterials are considered extremely promising for potentially attractive applications in various fields, from optics and photonics to tissue regeneration. This review summarizes and discusses evidence of the use of various kinds of inorganic compounds in spider silk modification intended for a multitude of applications. It also provides an insight into approaches for obtaining hybrid silk-based materials via 3D printing.
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31
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Asakura T, Ogawa T, Naito A, Williamson MP. Chain-folded lamellar structure and dynamics of the crystalline fraction of Bombyx mori silk fibroin and of (Ala-Gly-Ser-Gly-Ala-Gly) n model peptides. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 164:3974-3983. [PMID: 32882279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.08.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Solid-state NMR is a powerful analytical technique to determine the composite structure of Bombyx mori silk fibroin (SF). In our previous paper, we proposed a lamellar structure for Ala-Gly copolypeptides as a model of the crystalline fraction in Silk II. In this paper, the structure and dynamics of the crystalline fraction and of a better mimic of the crystalline fraction, (Ala-Gly-Ser-Gly-Ala-Gly)n (n = 2-5, 8), and 13C selectively labeled [3-13C]Ala-(AGSGAG)5 in Silk II forms, were studied using structural and dynamical analyses of the Ala Cβ peaks in 13C cross polarization/ magic angle spinning NMR and 13C solid-state spin-lattice relaxation time (T1) measurements, respectively. Like Ala-Gly copolypeptides, these materials have lamellar structures with two kinds of Ala residues in β-sheet, A and B, plus one distorted β-turn, t, formed by repetitive folding using β-turns every eighth amino acid in an antipolar arrangement. However, because of the presence of Ser residues at every sixth residue in (AGSGAG)n, the T1 values and mobilities of B decreased significantly. We conclude that the Ser hydroxyls hydrogen bond to adjacent lamellar layers and fix them together in a similar way to Velcro®.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuo Asakura
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan.
| | - Tatsuya Ogawa
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Akira Naito
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Michael P Williamson
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
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32
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Mu X, Fitzpatrick V, Kaplan DL. From Silk Spinning to 3D Printing: Polymer Manufacturing using Directed Hierarchical Molecular Assembly. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e1901552. [PMID: 32109007 PMCID: PMC7415583 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201901552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Silk spinning offers an evolution-based manufacturing strategy for industrial polymer manufacturing, yet remains largely inaccessible as the manufacturing mechanisms in biological and synthetic systems, especially at the molecular level, are fundamentally different. The appealing characteristics of silk spinning include the sustainable sourcing of the protein material, the all-aqueous processing into fibers, and the unique material properties of silks in various formats. Substantial progress has been made to mimic silk spinning in artificial manufacturing processes, despite the gap between natural and artificial systems. This report emphasizes the universal spinning conditions utilized by both spiders and silkworms to generate silk fibers in nature, as a scientific and technical framework for directing molecular assembly into high-performance structures. The preparation of regenerated silk feedstocks and mimicking native spinning conditions in artificial manufacturing are discussed, as is progress and challenges in fiber spinning and 3D printing of silk-composites. Silk spinning is a biomimetic model for advanced and sustainable artificial polymer manufacturing, offering benefits in biomedical applications for tissue scaffolds and implantable devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Mu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Vincent Fitzpatrick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
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33
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Kaushik S, Thungon PD, Goswami P. Silk Fibroin: An Emerging Biocompatible Material for Application of Enzymes and Whole Cells in Bioelectronics and Bioanalytical Sciences. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:4337-4355. [PMID: 33455178 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.9b01971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Enzymes and whole cells serve as the active biological entities in a myriad of applications including bioprocesses, bioanalytics, and bioelectronics. Conserving the natural activity of these functional biological entities during their prolonged use is one of the major goals for validating their practical applications. Silk fibroin (SF) has emerged as a biocompatible material to interface with enzymes as well as whole cells. These biomaterials can be tailored both physically and chemically to create excellent scaffolds of different forms such as fibers, films, and powder for immobilization and stabilization of enzymes. The secondary structures of the SF-protein can be attuned to generate hydrophobic/hydrophilic pockets suitable to create the biocompatible microenvironments. The fibrous nature of the SF protein with a dominant hydrophobic property may also serve as an excellent support for promoting cellular adhesion and growth. This review compiles and discusses the recent literature on the application of SF as a biocompatible material at the interface of enzymes and cells in various fields, including the emerging area of bioelectronics and bioanalytical sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharbani Kaushik
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43201, United States
| | - Phurpa Dema Thungon
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Pranab Goswami
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
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34
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Asakura T, Aoki A, Komatsu K, Ito C, Suzuki I, Naito A, Kaji H. Lamellar Structure in Alanine-Glycine Copolypeptides Studied by Solid-State NMR Spectroscopy: A Model for the Crystalline Domain of Bombyx mori Silk Fibroin in Silk II Form. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:3102-3111. [PMID: 32603138 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c00486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Bombyx mori silk fibroin (SF) fibers with excellent mechanical properties have attracted widespread attention as new biomaterials. However, the structural details are still not conclusive. Here, we propose a lamellar structure for the crystalline domain of the SF fiber based on structural analyses of the Ala Cβ peaks in the 13C cross-polarization/magic angle spinning NMR spectra of (Ala-Gly)m (m = 9, 12, 15, and 25) and 13C selectively labeled (Ala-Gly)15 model peptides. Namely, three Ala Cβ peaks with relative intensities of 1:2:1 obtained by deconvolution were assigned to two kinds of β-sheet and a β-turn, which are interpreted as a lamellar structure formed by repetitive folding using β-turns every eighth amino acid, for which the basic structure is (Ala-Gly)4 in an antipolar arrangement. The dynamics and intermolecular arrangement were further studied using 13C solid-state spin-lattice relaxation time observations and the rotational echo double resonance experiments, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuo Asakura
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Akihiro Aoki
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Kohei Komatsu
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Chie Ito
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Ikue Suzuki
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Akira Naito
- Department of Biotechnology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Hironori Kaji
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
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35
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Leem JW, Fraser MJ, Kim YL. Transgenic and Diet-Enhanced Silk Production for Reinforced Biomaterials: A Metamaterial Perspective. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2020; 22:79-102. [PMID: 32160010 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-082719-032747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Silk fibers, which are protein-based biopolymers produced by spiders and silkworms, are fascinating biomaterials that have been extensively studied for numerous biomedical applications. Silk fibers often have remarkable physical and biological properties that typical synthetic materials do not exhibit. These attributes have prompted a wide variety of silk research, including genetic engineering, biotechnological synthesis, and bioinspired fiber spinning, to produce silk proteins on a large scale and to further enhance their properties. In this review, we describe the basic properties of spider silk and silkworm silk and the important production methods for silk proteins. We discuss recent advances in reinforced silk using silkworm transgenesis and functional additive diets with a focus on biomedical applications. We also explain that reinforced silk has an analogy with metamaterials such that user-designed atypical responses can be engineered beyond what naturally occurring materials offer. These insights into reinforced silk can guide better engineering of superior synthetic biomaterials and lead to discoveries of unexplored biological and medical applications of silk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Woo Leem
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA
| | - Malcolm J Fraser
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA.,Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Young L Kim
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA.,Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering, and Purdue Quantum Science and Engineering Institute, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA;
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36
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Hydrothermal Effect on Mechanical Properties of Nephila pilipes Spidroin. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:polym12051013. [PMID: 32365504 PMCID: PMC7284706 DOI: 10.3390/polym12051013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The superlative mechanical properties of spider silk and its conspicuous variations have instigated significant interest over the past few years. However, current attempts to synthetically spin spider silk fibers often yield an inferior physical performance, owing to the improper molecular interactions of silk proteins. Considering this, herein, a post-treatment process to reorganize molecular structures and improve the physical strength of spider silk is reported. The major ampullate dragline silk from Nephila pilipes with a high β-sheet content and an adequate tensile strength was utilized as the study material, while that from Cyrtophora moluccensis was regarded as a reference. Our results indicated that the hydrothermal post-treatment (50-70 °C) of natural spider silk could effectively induce the alternation of secondary structures (random coil to β-sheet) and increase the overall tensile strength of the silk. Such advantageous post-treatment strategy when applied to regenerated spider silk also leads to an increment in the strength by ~2.5-3.0 folds, recapitulating ~90% of the strength of native spider silk. Overall, this study provides a facile and effective post-spinning means for enhancing the molecular structures and mechanical properties of as-spun silk threads, both natural and regenerated.
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37
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Abrasion Wear Resistance of Polymer Constructional Materials for Rapid Prototyping and Tool-Making Industry. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:polym12040873. [PMID: 32290260 PMCID: PMC7240616 DOI: 10.3390/polym12040873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The original test results of abrasive wear resistance of different type of construction polymer materials were presented and discussed in this article. Tests were made on an adapted test stand (surface grinder for form and finish grinding). Test samples were made of different types of polymer board materials including RenShape®, Cibatool® and phenolic cotton laminated plastic laminate (TCF). An original methodology based on a grinding experimental set-up of abrasion wear resistance of polymer construction materials was presented. Equations describing relations between material type and wear resistance were presented and discussed. Micro and macro structures were investigated and used in wear resistance prediction.
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38
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Xiong R, Luan J, Kang S, Ye C, Singamaneni S, Tsukruk VV. Biopolymeric photonic structures: design, fabrication, and emerging applications. Chem Soc Rev 2020; 49:983-1031. [PMID: 31960001 DOI: 10.1039/c8cs01007b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Biological photonic structures can precisely control light propagation, scattering, and emission via hierarchical structures and diverse chemistry, enabling biophotonic applications for transparency, camouflaging, protection, mimicking and signaling. Corresponding natural polymers are promising building blocks for constructing synthetic multifunctional photonic structures owing to their renewability, biocompatibility, mechanical robustness, ambient processing conditions, and diverse surface chemistry. In this review, we provide a summary of the light phenomena in biophotonic structures found in nature, the selection of corresponding biopolymers for synthetic photonic structures, the fabrication strategies for flexible photonics, and corresponding emerging photonic-related applications. We introduce various photonic structures, including multi-layered, opal, and chiral structures, as well as photonic networks in contrast to traditionally considered light absorption and structural photonics. Next, we summarize the bottom-up and top-down fabrication approaches and physical properties of organized biopolymers and highlight the advantages of biopolymers as building blocks for realizing unique bioenabled photonic structures. Furthermore, we consider the integration of synthetic optically active nanocomponents into organized hierarchical biopolymer frameworks for added optical functionalities, such as enhanced iridescence and chiral photoluminescence. Finally, we present an outlook on current trends in biophotonic materials design and fabrication, including current issues, critical needs, as well as promising emerging photonic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Xiong
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332-0245, USA.
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39
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Dong Q, Fang G, Huang Y, Hu L, Yao J, Shao Z, Ling S, Chen X. Effect of stress on the molecular structure and mechanical properties of supercontracted spider dragline silks. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:168-176. [PMID: 31789330 DOI: 10.1039/c9tb02032b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Supercontraction is one of the most interesting properties of spider dragline silks. In this study, changes in the secondary structures of the Nephila edulis spider dragline silk after it was subjected to different supercontraction processes were investigated by integrating synchrotron Fourier transform infrared (S-FTIR) microspectroscopy and mechanical characterization. The results showed that after free supercontraction, the β-sheet lost most of its orientation, while the helix and random coils were almost totally disordered. Interestingly, by conducting different types of supercontractions (i.e., stretching of the free supercontracted spider dragline silk to its original length or performing constrained supercontraction), it was found that although the molecular structures all changed after supercontraction, the mechanical properties almost remained unchanged when the length of the spider dragline silk did not change significantly. The other interesting conclusion obtained is that the manual stretching of a poorly oriented spider dragline silk cannot selectively improve the orientation degree of the β-sheet in the spider silk, but increase the orientation degree of all conformations (β-sheet, helix, and random). These experimental findings not only help to unveil the structure-property-function relationship of natural spider silks, but also provide a useful guideline for the design of biomimetic spider fiber materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglin Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China.
| | - Guangqiang Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yufang Huang
- Department of Materials Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Linli Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jinrong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhengzhong Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shengjie Ling
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China.
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40
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Sarkar A, Connor AJ, Koffas M, Zha RH. Chemical Synthesis of Silk-Mimetic Polymers. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 12:E4086. [PMID: 31817786 PMCID: PMC6947416 DOI: 10.3390/ma12244086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Silk is a naturally occurring high-performance material that can surpass man-made polymers in toughness and strength. The remarkable mechanical properties of silk result from the primary sequence of silk fibroin, which bears semblance to a linear segmented copolymer with alternating rigid ("crystalline") and flexible ("amorphous") blocks. Silk-mimetic polymers are therefore of great emerging interest, as they can potentially exhibit the advantageous features of natural silk while possessing synthetic flexibility as well as non-natural compositions. This review describes the relationships between primary sequence and material properties in natural silk fibroin and furthermore discusses chemical approaches towards the synthesis of silk-mimetic polymers. In particular, step-growth polymerization, controlled radical polymerization, and copolymerization with naturally derived silk fibroin are presented as strategies for synthesizing silk-mimetic polymers with varying molecular weights and degrees of sequence control. Strategies for improving macromolecular solubility during polymerization are also highlighted. Lastly, the relationships between synthetic approach, supramolecular structure, and bulk material properties are explored in this review, with the aim of providing an informative perspective on the challenges facing chemical synthesis of silk-mimetic polymers with desirable properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - R. Helen Zha
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (A.S.); (A.J.C.); (M.K.)
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Sha J, Chen X, Ma L. Concentration‐dependent conformation transition of regenerated silk fibroin induced by graphene oxide nanosheets incorporation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/polb.24895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Sha
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology Shanghai 200237 China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology Shanghai 200237 China
| | - Liang Ma
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology Shanghai 200237 China
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42
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Razavi M, Qiao Y, Thakor AS. Three-dimensional cryogels for biomedical applications. J Biomed Mater Res A 2019; 107:2736-2755. [PMID: 31408265 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cryogels are a subset of hydrogels synthesized under sub-zero temperatures: initially solvents undergo active freezing, which causes crystal formation, which is then followed by active melting to create interconnected supermacropores. Cryogels possess several attributes suited for their use as bioscaffolds, including physical resilience, bio-adaptability, and a macroporous architecture. Furthermore, their structure facilitates cellular migration, tissue-ingrowth, and diffusion of solutes, including nano- and micro-particle trafficking, into its supermacropores. Currently, subsets of cryogels made from both natural biopolymers such as gelatin, collagen, laminin, chitosan, silk fibroin, and agarose and/or synthetic biopolymers such as hydroxyethyl methacrylate, poly-vinyl alcohol, and poly(ethylene glycol) have been employed as 3D bioscaffolds. These cryogels have been used for different applications such as cartilage, bone, muscle, nerve, cardiovascular, and lung regeneration. Cryogels have also been used in wound healing, stem cell therapy, and diabetes cellular therapy. In this review, we summarize the synthesis protocol and properties of cryogels, evaluation techniques as well as current in vitro and in vivo cryogel applications. A discussion of the potential benefit of cryogels for future research and their application are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Razavi
- Interventional Regenerative Medicine and Imaging Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Yang Qiao
- Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas
| | - Avnesh S Thakor
- Interventional Regenerative Medicine and Imaging Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
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Roberts AD, Finnigan W, Wolde-Michael E, Kelly P, Blaker JJ, Hay S, Breitling R, Takano E, Scrutton NS. Synthetic biology for fibres, adhesives and active camouflage materials in protection and aerospace. MRS COMMUNICATIONS 2019; 9:486-504. [PMID: 31281737 PMCID: PMC6609449 DOI: 10.1557/mrc.2019.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic biology has huge potential to produce the next generation of advanced materials by accessing previously unreachable (bio)chemical space. In this prospective review, we take a snapshot of current activity in this rapidly developing area, focussing on prominent examples for high-performance applications such as those required for protective materials and the aerospace sector. The continued growth of this emerging field will be facilitated by the convergence of expertise from a range of diverse disciplines, including molecular biology, polymer chemistry, materials science and process engineering. This review highlights the most significant recent advances and address the cross-disciplinary challenges currently being faced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aled D. Roberts
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology
Research Centre SYBIOCHEM, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester,
Manchester, UK, M1 7DN
- Bio-Active Materials Group, School of Materials, The University of
Manchester, Manchester, UK, M13 9PL
| | - William Finnigan
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology
Research Centre SYBIOCHEM, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester,
Manchester, UK, M1 7DN
| | - Emmanuel Wolde-Michael
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology
Research Centre SYBIOCHEM, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester,
Manchester, UK, M1 7DN
| | - Paul Kelly
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology
Research Centre SYBIOCHEM, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester,
Manchester, UK, M1 7DN
| | - Jonny J. Blaker
- Bio-Active Materials Group, School of Materials, The University of
Manchester, Manchester, UK, M13 9PL
| | - Sam Hay
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology
Research Centre SYBIOCHEM, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester,
Manchester, UK, M1 7DN
| | - Rainer Breitling
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology
Research Centre SYBIOCHEM, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester,
Manchester, UK, M1 7DN
| | - Eriko Takano
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology
Research Centre SYBIOCHEM, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester,
Manchester, UK, M1 7DN
| | - Nigel S. Scrutton
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Manchester Synthetic Biology
Research Centre SYBIOCHEM, School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester,
Manchester, UK, M1 7DN
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Abstract
Silk is an important biopolymer for (bio)medical applications because of its unique and highly versatile structure and its robust clinical track record in human medicine. Silk can be processed into many material formats, including physically and chemically cross-linked hydrogels that have almost limitless applications ranging from tissue engineering to biomedical imaging and sensing. This concise review provides a detailed background of silk hydrogels, including silk structure-function relationships, biocompatibility and biodegradation, and it explores recent developments in silk hydrogel utilization, with specific reference to drug and cell delivery. We address common pitfalls and misconceptions while identifying emerging opportunities, including 3D printing.
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45
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Mechanically robust and stretchable silk/hyaluronic acid hydrogels. Carbohydr Polym 2019; 208:413-420. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2018.12.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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46
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High-strength and self-recoverable silk fibroin cryogels with anisotropic swelling and mechanical properties. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 122:1279-1289. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.09.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Xu H, Yi W, Li D, Zhang P, Yoo S, Bai L, Hou J, Hou X. Obtaining high mechanical performance silk fibers by feeding purified carbon nanotube/lignosulfonate composite to silkworms. RSC Adv 2019; 9:3558-3569. [PMID: 35518113 PMCID: PMC9060236 DOI: 10.1039/c8ra09934k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Silkworm fibers have attracted widespread attention for their superb glossy texture and promising mechanical performance. The mechanical properties can be reinforced with carbon nanofillers, particularly carbon nanotubes (CNTs), depending on the CNT content in the silk fibers. In order to increase the CNT content, lignosulfonate (LGS) was used as a surfactant to ameliorate the CNT solubility, dispersibility, and biocompatibility. The resulting CNT/LGS nano-composite was further processed through an additional purification method to remove excess surfactant and enhance the CNT/LGS ratio. Then the purified biocompatible single and multiple-walled CNTs were fed to silkworms, leading to a large CNT content in the resulting silk fibers. Reinforced silk fibers were produced with a mechanical strength as high as 1.07 GPa and a strain of 16.8%. The toughness modulus is 1.69 times than that of the unpurified group. The CNT-embedded silk fibers were characterized via Raman spectrometry and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), demonstrating that the CNT content in the silk fibers increased 1.5-fold in comparison to the unpurified group. The increased CNT content not only contributed to the self-assembly into buffering knots of silk fibers, but it also enhanced the conductivity of graphitized silk. Our coating and purification strategies provide a potential facile way to obtain natural silk fibers with high mechanical performance. Silkworm fibers have attracted widespread attention for their superb glossy texture and promising mechanical performance.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Xu
- Key Laboratory for Information Photonic Technology of Shaanxi Province
- Key Laboratory for Physical Electronics and Devices of the Ministry of Education
- School of Electronics and Information Engineering
- Xi'an Jiaotong University
- Xi'an 710049
| | - Wenhui Yi
- Key Laboratory for Information Photonic Technology of Shaanxi Province
- Key Laboratory for Physical Electronics and Devices of the Ministry of Education
- School of Electronics and Information Engineering
- Xi'an Jiaotong University
- Xi'an 710049
| | - Dongfan Li
- Frontier Institute of Science and Technology
- Xi'an Jiaotong University
- Xi'an 710054
- P. R. China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Information Photonic Technology of Shaanxi Province
- Key Laboratory for Physical Electronics and Devices of the Ministry of Education
- School of Electronics and Information Engineering
- Xi'an Jiaotong University
- Xi'an 710049
| | - Sweejiang Yoo
- Key Laboratory for Information Photonic Technology of Shaanxi Province
- Key Laboratory for Physical Electronics and Devices of the Ministry of Education
- School of Electronics and Information Engineering
- Xi'an Jiaotong University
- Xi'an 710049
| | - Lei Bai
- Key Laboratory for Information Photonic Technology of Shaanxi Province
- Key Laboratory for Physical Electronics and Devices of the Ministry of Education
- School of Electronics and Information Engineering
- Xi'an Jiaotong University
- Xi'an 710049
| | - Jin Hou
- Department of Pharmacology
- School of Basic Medical Sciences
- Xi'an Medical University
- Xi'an 710021
- People's Republic of China
| | - Xun Hou
- Key Laboratory for Information Photonic Technology of Shaanxi Province
- Key Laboratory for Physical Electronics and Devices of the Ministry of Education
- School of Electronics and Information Engineering
- Xi'an Jiaotong University
- Xi'an 710049
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48
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Koeppel A, Laity PR, Holland C. Extensional flow behaviour and spinnability of native silk. SOFT MATTER 2018; 14:8838-8845. [PMID: 30349916 DOI: 10.1039/c8sm01199k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Silk fibres are assembled via flow. While changes in the physiological environment of the gland as well as the shear rheology of silk are largely understood, the effect of extensional flow fields on native silk proteins is almost completely unknown. Here we demonstrate that filament stretching on a conventional tensile tester is a suitable technique to assess silk's extensional flow properties and its ability to form fibres under extensional conditions characteristic of natural spinning. We report that native Bombyx mori silk responds differently to extensional flow fields when compared to synthetic linear polymers, as evidenced by a higher Trouton ratio which we attribute to silk's increased interchain interactions. Finally, we show that native silk proteins can only be spun into stable fibres at low extension rates as a result of dehydration, suggesting that extensional fields alone are unable to induce natural fibre formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Koeppel
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK.
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49
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Mason TO, Shimanovich U. Fibrous Protein Self-Assembly in Biomimetic Materials. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1706462. [PMID: 29883013 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201706462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Protein self-assembly processes, by which polypeptides interact and independently form multimeric structures, lead to a wide array of different endpoints. Structures formed range from highly ordered molecular crystals to amorphous aggregates. Order arises in the system from a balance between many low-energy processes occurring due to a set of interactions between residues in a chain, between residues in different chains, and between solute and solvent. In Nature, self-assembling protein systems have evolved over millions of years to organize into supramolecular structures, optimized for specific functions, with this propensity determined by the sequence of their constituent amino acids, of which only 20 are encoded in DNA. The structural materials that arise from biological self-assembly can display remarkable mechanical properties, often as a result of hierarchical structure on the nano- and microscales, and much research has been devoted to mimicking and exploiting these properties for a variety of end uses. This work presents a review of a range of studies in which biological functions are effectively reproduced through the design of self-assembling fibrous protein systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas O Mason
- Department of Materials and Interfaces, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, 7610001, Israel
| | - Ulyana Shimanovich
- Department of Materials and Interfaces, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, 7610001, Israel
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50
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Osama I, Gorenkova N, McKittrick CM, Wongpinyochit T, Goudie A, Seib FP, Carswell HVO. In vitro studies on space-conforming self-assembling silk hydrogels as a mesenchymal stem cell-support matrix suitable for minimally invasive brain application. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13655. [PMID: 30209255 PMCID: PMC6135807 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-31905-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced cell therapies require robust delivery materials and silk is a promising contender with a long clinical track record. Our aim was to optimise self-assembling silk hydrogels as a mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-support matrix that would allow future minimally invasive brain application. We used sonication energy to programme the transition of silk (1-5% w/v) secondary structure from a random coil to a stable β-sheet configuration. This allowed fine tuning of self-assembling silk hydrogels to achieve space conformity in the absence of any silk hydrogel swelling and to support uniform cell distribution as well as cell viability. Embedded cells underwent significant proliferation over 14 days in vitro, with the best proliferation achieved with 2% w/v hydrogels. Embedded MSCs showed significantly better viability in vitro after injection through a 30G needle when the gels were in the pre-gelled versus post-gelled state. Silk hydrogels (4% w/v) with physical characteristics matching brain tissue were visualised in preliminary in vivo experiments to exhibit good space conformity in an ischemic cavity (intraluminal thread middle cerebral artery occlusion model) in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 3). This study informs on optimal MSC-hydrogel matrix conditions for minimally invasive application as a platform for future experiments targeting brain repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Osama
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - N Gorenkova
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - C M McKittrick
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - T Wongpinyochit
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - A Goudie
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - F P Seib
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK.
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden, Hohe Strasse 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany.
| | - H V O Carswell
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK.
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