In a groundbreaking advancement, scientists have successfully employed CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to create spiders that produce fluorescent silk. This achievement unlocks new possibilities for innovative applications in material science and biotechnology, capitalizing on the exceptional qualities of spider silk.
Researchers at the University of Bayreuth showcased the ability of CRISPR-Cas9 to integrate specific sequences into spider silk proteins, thereby endowing the fibers with novel functionalities. Their work centered on *Parasteatoda tepidariorum*, the common house spider, where genetic material was injected into unfertilized eggs. The resulting spiders spun fluorescent red webs, with no significant compromise to the silk's inherent qualities.
Spider silk's renowned strength, elasticity, and biodegradability have long made it a prized material. This genetic modification expands the potential for producing a diverse array of silks with unprecedented properties, offering benefits for both scientific research and practical applications. The team also demonstrated the precision of CRISPR technology by exploring the deactivation of genes associated with eye development in spiders.