Sericin-based nanomaterials and their applications in drug delivery

Sericin is a biocompatible, biodegradable, nonimmunogenic protein-based biomacromolecule derived from Silkworm (Bombyx mori) and constitutes 25%-30% of silk protein. In recent years, sericin-based nanomaterial has received considerable attention because of their physical, chemical, and multifunctional biological properties (antibacterial, antiinflammatory, and antioxidant). The modulated form of sericin by blending with other polymers can improve the physicochemical properties of sericin. It has been employed as a biomaterial for various biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, which include skin tissue regeneration, wound dressing materials, and drug delivery. In this chapter, we focus on recent progress on the use of sericin-based biomaterials and sericin-based nanomaterials for biomedical applications. Furthermore, the chapter briefly recaps the fabrication methodology, physicochemical characterization, physicochemical and biological properties, therapeutic potential of sericin-based nanomaterials in drug delivery, and clinical application of sericin-based biomaterials.