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Updated: Jul 26, 2025
Manufacture and Drug Delivery Applications of Silk Nanoparticles
Published on: October 8, 2016
Research and therapeutic applications of silk proteins in cancer
Neema Kumari1, Narasimha Pullaguri2, Vikas Sahu3
1Center for Research Development and Sustenance, Malla Reddy Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, India.
Abstract:
Despite the availability of advanced treatments, cancer remains the second leading cause of death worldwide. This is due to the many challenges prevailing in the research field and cancer therapy. Resistance to therapy and side effects provide major hindrances to recovery from cancer. As a result, in addition to the aim of killing cancer cells, the focus should also be on reducing or preventing side effects of the treatment. To enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatment, many researchers are studying drug delivery systems based on silk proteins: fibroin and sericin. These proteins have high biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ease of modification. Consequently, many researchers have developed several formulations of silk proteins such as scaffolds, nanoparticles, and hydrogels by combining them with other materials or drugs. This review summarizes the use of silk proteins in various forms in cancer research and therapy. The use of silk proteins to study cancer cells, to deliver cancer drugs to a target site, in cancer thermal therapy, and as an anti-cancer agent is described here.
Insights
Silk proteins like fibroin and sericin show promise for improving cancer therapy by acting as drug delivery systems and anti-cancer agents. These biocompatible materials offer potential for enhanced treatment effectiveness and reduced side effects.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Oncology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Cancer is a leading global cause of death, with therapy resistance and side effects posing significant challenges.
- Current cancer treatment strategies require enhancement to improve efficacy and minimize patient harm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of silk proteins (fibroin and sericin) in cancer research and therapy.
- To explore silk protein-based formulations for improved cancer treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on silk protein applications in oncology.
- Analysis of silk protein formulations including scaffolds, nanoparticles, and hydrogels.
Main Results:
- Silk proteins exhibit high biocompatibility, biodegradability, and modifiability, making them suitable for advanced drug delivery.
- Various silk protein formulations are being investigated for cancer cell studies, targeted drug delivery, thermal therapy, and direct anti-cancer effects.
Conclusions:
- Silk proteins offer a versatile platform for developing innovative cancer therapies.
- Further research into silk protein-based systems could lead to more effective and safer cancer treatments.
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