Abstract

UNLOCKING NATURE'S BIOMATERIAL: SILK FIBROIN AND THE REVOLUTION IN TISSUE REPAIR

Anjana Lekshmi S. S.*, Dr. Vipin K. V., Abhanya Surendran, Dr. Ann Rose Augusthy, Nejina V. Hussain and Dr. K. Premaletha

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Abstract

Tissue engineering is an evolving field that offers innovative solutions for repairing damaged tissues and organs, potentially overcoming the limitations of traditional medical treatments like organ transplants and autologous grafts. Silk fibroin, derived from Bombyx mori cocoons, has emerged as a promising biomaterial for these applications due to its unique properties, including high tensile strength, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low immunogenicity. These attributes make it an excellent candidate for developing scaffolds that support cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. The various forms of silk fibroin scaffolds such as three-dimensional porous structures, hydrogels, and composite and fibrous scaffolds are explored for their potential in regenerating a range of tissues and organs, including bone, cartilage, skin, neural, vascular, and corneal tissues. Additionally, the ability to tailor silk fibroin scaffolds to enhance vascularization and incorporate growth factors for improved cell function is highlighted. The use of silk fibroin-based therapies holds significant promise for advancing tissue repair and regeneration, potentially revolutionizing personalized medicine and improving healthcare outcomes.

Keywords: Tissue engineering, Silk fibroin, Regenerative medicine, Bombyx mori.