A miniature silkworm cocoon protects sensitive drug molecules from degradation

Scientists have created a miniature silkworm cocoon that protects sensitive drug molecules from degradation during storage and release. They hope that this technology will extend the shelf life of drugs and help treat cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and more.

For scientists, finding inspiration from nature is a common means of human life. In the past, scientists have been inspired by the enzymatic reactions in nature to produce energy, and are inspired by cactus to store water. Today, we use the natural characteristics of silkworm cocoons to create a carrier suitable for small molecules. “Many drugs have excellent therapeutic effects, but they are less stable and difficult to store. This is a common problem in medical practice,” said Tuomas Knowles, lead author of the study. Therefore, they hope that silkworm cocoons can help prolong the life of drug molecules. Because silk is a biodegradable residue and has a low production cost, it has been used to make other surgical supplies, including brain implants, optical devices, Xibao House, and adhesive glue. The safety of the modified material has been proven.

In order to transform silkworm cocoons for human use, the researchers used a unique micro-engineering technique to produce miniature artificial silkworm cocoons, one thousandth of the size of natural silkworm cocoons. Later, the researchers examined the protective effect of the micro-cocoon on antibodies. It is well known that antibodies are the most difficult type of drug to preserve. At higher concentrations, antibodies tend to aggregate and it is difficult to maintain the original stability. "By wrapping the antibodies inside the micro-cocoon, we are able to significantly increase their longevity and also extend the range of uses for antibody drugs," Knowles said. "We are very pleased with the new use of the modified micromaterials."