(77a) Development of a Resilin-Based Artificial Protein for Application in Cartilage Engineering

Recombinant proteins have been explored for a number of tissue engineering applications. In particular, artificial proteins based on structural repeats of elastin and silk have been investigated for use in soft tissue and orthopedic applications. Compared to synthetic or natural materials, recombinant proteins have a number of advantages that include: exquisite control over sequence and composition; a precise molecular weight; and the modular nature, which allows for the composition of domains to be easily altered.

We are developing an artificial protein scaffold based on a structural repeat found in resilin, an elastic protein naturally found in insect joints and tendons that contributes to flight and jumping. Resilin has a high strain and can efficiently store energy. In addition, it efficiently recovers after deformation and has a high fatigue lifetime, which makes it ideal for use in repetitive environments. Our protein design includes bioactive domains and sites for either chemical or photochemical crosslinking. Protein design and purity are assessed by Western blot, amino acid analysis, mass spectrometry, and mechanical testing. Based on the natural properties of resilin, we believe that these resilin-based proteins are promising candidates for cartilage engineering.