SERICIN AS A MULTIDIMENSIONAL SILK PROTEIN: FROM SILKWORM NUTRITION TO ANTIBACTERIAL, BIOMEDICAL AND COSMETIC RESOURCE

Jagadishakumara Boraiah*, Mallaiah Shivashankar

Sericin, a hydrophilic globular protein constituting the outer layer of silk fibers produced by the silkworm (Bombyx mori), is emerging as a multifunctional biomolecule with significant relevance to sustainable sericulture. Once discarded as an industrial waste, sericin is now recognised for its nutritional value, antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity. This review collates current evidence on the application of sericin as a functional feed supplement in silkworm rearing, with a particular emphasis on its dietary supplement and antibacterial properties in silkworms. Accumulating studies demonstrate that dietary or topical sericin supplementation enhances larval growth performance, cocoon and shell parameters, and survival, especially under bacterial challenge. Sericin exhibits inhibitory activity against a range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, contributing to reduced infection burden and improved host resilience. Collectively, these findings position sericin as a value-added, eco-friendly intervention that not only enhances silkworm health and productivity but also advances circular bioeconomy approaches through the reutilization of silk industry residues.