Spider silk

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Properties	|-| | Density || 1.3 g/cm³ |-| | Melting point || |-| | Boiling point || |-| | Thermal conductivity || |-| | Electrical resistivity ||
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Spider silk is a protein fiber spun by spiders, known for its remarkable mechanical properties and diverse applications. It is a biopolymer that has been the subject of extensive research due to its strength, elasticity, and biodegradability.

Structure and Composition

Spider silk is primarily composed of proteins called spidroins, which are large, repetitive proteins that form the silk's structure. These proteins are rich in glycine and alanine, which contribute to the silk's strength and flexibility. The silk is produced in specialized glands located in the spider's abdomen, and different types of silk can be produced depending on the gland.

Types of Spider Silk

Spiders can produce several types of silk, each with unique properties and functions:

• Dragline silk: Used for the web's frame and for the spider's lifeline. It is the strongest type of silk.
• Capture spiral silk: Used in the sticky spirals of the web to capture prey.
• Tubuliform silk: Used for egg sacs.
• Aciniform silk: Used to wrap prey.
• Minor ampullate silk: Used for temporary scaffolding during web construction.

Mechanical Properties

Spider silk is renowned for its combination of strength and elasticity. It has a tensile strength comparable to that of steel, yet it is much lighter. The silk's elasticity allows it to absorb large amounts of energy, making it tougher than many synthetic fibers.

Applications

Due to its unique properties, spider silk has potential applications in various fields:

• Biomedical: Used in sutures, tissue engineering, and drug delivery systems.
• Textiles: Development of lightweight, durable clothing.
• Military: Potential use in bulletproof vests and other protective gear.

Challenges in Production

Harvesting spider silk on a large scale is challenging due to the territorial and cannibalistic nature of spiders. Researchers are exploring biotechnology methods, such as using genetically modified bacteria, yeast, or plants to produce silk proteins.

Research and Development

Ongoing research aims to understand the genetic and molecular basis of silk production, improve synthetic production methods, and explore new applications. The study of spider silk also provides insights into evolutionary biology and materials science.

Also see

• Silk
• Biopolymer
• Protein
• Biotechnology
• Materials science