A novel method to prepare tussah/Bombyx mori silk fibroin-based films

Abstract

The possibility of using silk fibroin in biomaterials for tissue engineering is a subject of broad interest. In this study, Bombyx mori/tussah silk fibroin (BSF/TSF) blend films were prepared by solution casting using CaCl₂/formic acid as a co-solvent and water as a rinse solvent. The morphology, crystallinity, thermal resistance, mechanical properties and water contact angle of the blend films as well as the biocompatibility were investigated. The BSF/TSF blend films displayed a smooth surface and specific nanostructure in their cross-section, originating from the nanofibril-preservation during fibroin dissolution. The water rinse process induced the formation of a stable β-sheet structure. The BSF film showed superior mechanical properties to the TSF film, and the blending with TSF led to a significant reduction in the strength and elasticity of blend films. However, adding the TSF component could regulate the hydrophilic properties and enhance cell growth on the blend films. The BSF/TSF blend films with specific nanostructure, stable secondary structure, appropriate mechanical properties, and good biocompatibility, are promising candidates for application in regenerative medicine.