The Development of Spider Silks into Modern Medicine
Nina Fiocco
Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation
College: College of Liberal Arts
Major: Commmunication
Faculty Research Mentor: Daniela Shebitz
Abstract:
During a visit to Blue Creek, Belize, a local farmer, Isadoro, recounted an incident in which he used a spider web to stop a worker’s severe bleeding before reaching medical care. This account highlights a longstanding natural remedy and raises the question of how biomimicry can integrate such materials into modern medicine. This literature review explores how spider silk’s remarkable properties—high elasticity, strength, and biocompatibility—have inspired advancements in surgical sutures, wound healing, and tissue engineering.Previous research has investigated the potential of spider silk as a biomaterial, emphasizing its ability to promote cell growth, reduce infection risk, and enhance the durability of medical applications. While synthetic alternatives have been developed, they have yet to fully replicate the properties of natural spider silk. Additionally, ethical and environmental considerations must be addressed to ensure sustainable sourcing without disrupting ecosystems. By analyzing existing studies on biomimetic materials, this review underscores the potential of spider silk in shaping the future of medical innovation while acknowledging the challenges that remain in its practical application.Keywords: Biomimicry, Spider Silk, Fibroins, Synthetic Spider Silk, Biopolymers, Recombinant