Silkworms and Shrimps: New Hope for Skin and Bone Repair, EU Research Shows

Researchers funded by the European Union are making exciting strides in healing damaged skin and bones using silkworms and shrimps.

The project explores how these natural materials can help regenerate human tissue. The goal is to find new ways to address the growing need for surgeries and transplants due to illnesses, accidents, or ageing.

The SHIFT project is a major part of this research. It focuses on creating bio-based materials that can help regenerate skin, bone, and cartilage. These materials aim to improve blood vessel growth and treat chronic issues like diabetic ulcers and large bone defects.

Another initiative, SkinTERM, is working on treating skin wounds by mimicking how skin develops in embryos. This research uses elements from fetal skin and certain animals that heal without scarring, like the spiny mouse.

According to the EU Research and Innovation Magazine, silk from silkworms can be used as a scaffold to help damaged tissues grow new cells and blood vessels. This method could be used for treating diabetic ulcers and chronic back pain.

Future Plans

By the early 2030s, the SHIFT project hopes to develop prototypes using silkworms and other marine organisms for direct human benefit. Professor Antonella Motta from the University of Trento supports this shift towards natural solutions, believing it could revolutionise medical treatments in the future.