The silkworm transforms the gene that is highly durable

US scientists have created a genetically modified silkworm that can release silk, giving it the potential to produce bulletproof garment materials.

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Spider silk protein has high elastic properties and very tough, has great potential in producing bulletproof materials or in medical applications. However, natural spider silk is very rare because spiders have homosexual properties and do not live in colonies.

Scientists have created genetically modified silkworms that can release spider silk

Recently, scientists from the University of Wyoming (USA) have successfully fabricated stretchy and tough silk like spider silk. The new silk is created by transplanting a spider's gene sequence into the silkworm. Genetically modified silkworms can release silk containing spider silk proteins, much more elongated and tougher than normal silk.

Dr. Donald Jarvis, head of research, said on the Daily Mail : 'The results show that silkworms can be genetically engineered to produce synthetic silk containing spider silk proteins, which have superior properties compared to ordinary silk '.

In the future, genetically modified silkworms can be used in plants to produce silk filaments containing spider silk proteins in large quantities. The new silk is expected to help produce super-strong fabrics, wound dressings and even bulletproof vests.

'Genetically modified silk can be used to produce artificial wound bandages, ligaments, tendons and frames. In addition, new silk can be used in cosmetic surgery and other fields, 'added Dr Jarvis.