Conductive and magnetic silk biomaterials: functionalization strategies and challenges for sustainable bioelectronics

Silk protein-based biomaterials are attractive because of their mechanical performance, biocompatibility, and processability into fibers, films, and hydrogels. Recent efforts have focused on integrating electrical conductivity and magnetic responsiveness for bioelectronics, biosensing, neural interfaces, and regenerative medicine. This review examines how these functionalities can be incorporated into natural and recombinant silk materials through pre- and post-assembly strategies across different material formats. Particular attention is given to their effects on protein structure, long-term stability, biocompatibility, and environmental sustainability. By identifying the trade-offs between functionality and material integrity, this review outlines design principles and future directions for developing sustainable silk-based bioelectronic materials.