Kraig files two patents based on recombinant spider silk

Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, situated in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is the developer of spider silk-based fiber and has filed two new patents related to recombinant spider silk.

Both rely on the company’s core knock-in/knock-out gene-editing methods, which were first made public in 2020, expanding on nearly pure spider silk genetic engineering systems enabling larger, more sophisticated, and more diverse genetic engineering systems.

The first of the two patents, which covers the in situ auto assembly of large and complicated proteins, enables the creation of silks with various mechanical and chemical characteristics that cannot be achieved by conventional gene-editing methods. Kraig created this innovative technology to overcome the size and complexity limitations of protein synthesis available from the world’s major recombinant gene manufacturers.

The second patent goes beyond the typical heavy chain fibroin component of silk in gene editing. This new research and development path paves the way for complementary protein co-production. The company’s aim for its transgenic silkworms as host platforms for customized aesthetic and pharmaceutical proteins is realized with this advancement in research.

The corporation has submitted both of these patent applications through the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) process of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), as well as utility patents in the United States. The patents’ broad scope will allow the firm to defend its technology all around the world.

COO Jon Rice, said that their research team continues to offer fresh and inventive approaches to overcome what others may view as a technology restriction. He is extremely hopeful about the future of Kraig Labs and their spider silk innovations, based on the IP portfolio that their team is developing and the silk technologies that have resulted.