Kraig Biocraft says completed gene library could lead to 200 new fibres
Kraig Biocraft Laboratories has successfully integrated every planned Project Atlas transgene into living commercial silkworm hosts, completing the foundational Gene Library for construction of unique recombinant spider silks.
This will provide the foundation for the systematic creation and evaluation of more than 200 potential genetic pairing configurations, potentially resulting in more than 200 distinct fibres, said the company.
Scientists insert specific spider DNA sequences (responsible for making spider silk proteins, or spidroins) into the genetic makeup of silkworm eggs. The resulting silkworms are bred into a stable genetic line where their natural silk glands are modified to produce both native silkworm proteins and spider silk proteins simultaneously. The living silkworm uses its natural spinning architecture to produce a continuous, high-performance fibre. By altering the inserted spider DNA sequences, Kraig can customise the resulting thread for specific levels of tensile strength, elasticity and toughness.
Dr Xiaoli Zhang, chief scientist of Kraig Labs, said: "Completing the Atlas Gene Library is a defining milestone for Project Atlas. Every planned Atlas transgene has now been established in commercial silkworm hosts, giving us the complete set of genetic building blocks we envisioned when Project Atlas began."
