Preparation of recombinant spider silk protein-polyvinyl alcohol composite scaffold material

Abstract

Objective To investigate the effects of many factors such as porogen, denaturant and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer on the structure and properties of recombinant spider silk protein-PVA composite scaffold material. Methods The silk fibrous protein solution was prepared by dissolving the recombinant spider silk protein in 98% formic acid. Recombinant spider silk protein-PVA composite porous scaffolds were prepared by freeze-drying and particle-leaching method. Scanning electron microscope was used to observe the conformation of the scaffolds. Single strand strength testing machine was used to test the mechanical property of the scaffolds. Results Mechanical property of the scaffolds was better with ethanol as denaturant. Breaking stress and break specific tenacity enhanced by over 5 times. Breaking elongation ratio could reach 12.21%. Using NaCt ( ψ<500 μm) as porogen, or the introduction of PVA could improve the performances of porous scaffold evidently. Conclusion Recombinant spider silk protein-PVA composite porous scaffolds will have a prospective application in tissue engineering. Key words: Recombinant spider silk protein; Lyophilized; Polyvinyl alcohol; Scaffolds