Simple and Green Process for Silk Fibroin Production by Water Degumming

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Silk fibroin (SF) is a promising biocompatible material for tissue engineering scaffolds.
• Conventional sericin removal and SF dissolution methods use harsh chemicals and extensive purification, potentially damaging SF properties.
• There is a need for sustainable and efficient methods for SF processing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, green, and efficient water-based degumming method for silk fibroin (SF).
• To investigate the dissolution of SF using eco-friendly acid mixtures.
• To evaluate the impact of the processed SF on cell viability in biomaterial blends.

Main Methods:

• A novel water degumming technique using boiling water for sericin removal.
• Dissolution of SF using formic acid/orthophosphoric acid mixtures.
• Fabrication of electrospun poly(lactic acid)/SF blends and assessment of cell viability.

Main Results:

• Achieved nearly complete sericin removal (30% by weight) within 6 hours using boiling water.
• Successfully dissolved SF in eco-friendly acid mixtures, eliminating the need for harsh salts and dialysis.
• Demonstrated significantly enhanced cell viability in poly(lactic acid)/SF blends compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Water degumming is a simple, green, and effective method for producing silk fibroin for tissue engineering.
• The developed process simplifies SF purification and preserves its properties.
• This eco-friendly approach facilitates the creation of bioactive scaffolds with improved cellular compatibility.