Mechanically Strong Globular-Protein-Based Fibers Obtained Using a Microfluidic Spinning Technique

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Protein Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Fibrous proteins with rigid and flexible units are ideal for strong biological fibers.
• Globular proteins, like bovine serum albumin (BSA), are typically unsuitable for fiber production due to structural defects.
• Developing mechanically strong fibers from globular proteins presents a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the production of robust protein fibers from globular proteins.
• To investigate the mechanical properties of BSA-derived fibers.
• To explore novel strategies for creating high-performance biomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a microfluidic technique for protein fiber formation.
• Employed post-stretching treatment to enhance fiber structure and strength.
• Characterized the mechanical performance, including toughness and breaking strength.

Main Results:

• Successfully produced robust protein fibers from bovine serum albumin (BSA).
• Achieved a toughness of up to 143 MJ/m³.
• Post-stretching increased breaking strength to nearly 300 MPa, indicating induced long-range order.
• Fiber performance rivals or exceeds that of recombinant spider silks and regenerated silkworm fibers.

Conclusions:

• Microfluidic fabrication enables the creation of high-performance protein fibers from globular proteins.
• BSA-based fibers demonstrate exceptional mechanical robustness, comparable to natural protein fibers.
• This approach offers a promising new pathway for developing advanced biological fibers.