Biotechnological advances in Silkworm (Bombyx mori) research: From genomics to silk biomaterials

Abstract

The domesticated silkworm, Bombyx mori, has transitioned from its traditional role in sericulture to a powerful and versatile platform in modern biotechnology. This review critically synthesizes the monumental progress in silkworm research, charting its evolution from a genomic model to a source of advanced biomaterials. The completion of the silkworm genome has catalyzed a cascade of innovations, providing foundational resources for functional genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics. These multi-omics approaches have unraveled the complex molecular machinery governing silk protein synthesis, developmental biology and immune responses. We discuss the transformative impact of genetic engineering technologies, including the pioneering piggyBac transposon system and the revolutionary CRISPR-Cas9 platform, which have enabled precise genome editing for enhancing traits such as disease resistance and silk yield. Furthermore, these tools have repurposed the silkworm silk gland into a highly efficient bioreactor for the large-scale production of valuable recombinant proteins, including pharmaceuticals and vaccines. The unique biochemical and mechanical properties of silk proteins, particularly fibroin, have been harnessed to fabricate a new generation of biomaterials. We explore the burgeoning applications of silk fibroin in tissue engineering scaffolds, controlled drug delivery systems and biodegradable medical implants. The development of silk-based nanoparticles, hydrogels and Electrospun nanofibers further expands their utility in nanotechnology and regenerative medicine. This review concludes by addressing the current challenges, including scalability and regulatory hurdles and outlines future prospects, such as the integration of synthetic biology to design smart silk biomaterials and advance precision sericulture, underscoring the silkworm’s enduring significance in science and industry.