Current Progress on Scale‐Up and Commercialization of Microbially‐Produced Silk

Abstract

Over the past two decades, significant advancements have been made in the scalable production and commercialization of microbially‐produced recombinant protein polymers. This perspective presents the evolution from early research efforts to the development of market‐ready products, with a focus on recombinant silk‐like proteins. Initial attempts to synthesize spider silk proteins in microbial hosts faced challenges with solubility, stability, and yield. Recent advancements in synthetic biology, protein engineering, and bioprocess development have enabled the substantial progress on these challenges. Early commercial efforts highlight the complexities and high costs involved in silk production and more recent strategies have shifted toward processes with better scalability, techno‐economics, and product properties. Significant commercial progress has been made, with products launched in textiles and personal care. Although market penetration is limited so far, substantial groundwork is laid for future success. Key challenges remain, such as continued high production costs and the need for cost‐effective purification and fiber spinning techniques. However, the convergence of scientific, technological, and market developments –including a growing number of product launches – suggests that recombinant silk and protein polymers can soon become widespread sustainable materials across various industries.