Silk biomaterials and methods of use thereof
US8071722B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 15, 2010 |
| Grant date | Dec 6, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 15, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC D)Textiles; Paper
- CPC primaryD06M15/11
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention provides an all-aqueous process and composition for production of silk biomaterials, e.g., fibers, films, foams and mats. In the process, at least one biocompatible polymer, such as poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) (a well-documented biocompatible material), was blended with the silk protein prior to processing e.g., electrospinning. We discovered that this step avoids problems associated with conformational transitions of fibroin during solubilization and reprocessing from aqueous solution which lead to embrittled materials. Moreover, the process avoids the use of organic solvents that can pose problems when the processed biomaterials are exposed to cells in vitro or in vivo.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.