Improved Upland Cotton Fiber via Recombiant Proteins
Inventors: Dr. Chris Saski
Keywords: Textiles/Fibers, Agriculture, Plant Growth, Environmental
Market Overview
Global cotton natural fiber composite market projected to grow from $181.9M (2020) to $356.9M (2026) at 11.9% CAGR. Genetically modified cotton seed market projected to reach $5.78B.This invention introduces a novel approach to enhance American Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) fibers by integrating spidroin-like genes (derived from spider silk proteins). The goal is to improve fiber strength, elasticity, insulation, and antiseptic properties while maintaining compatibility with existing cotton processing systems. This innovation addresses the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers in technical textiles.
Applications:
-Improves existing cotton fibers rather than creating new materials, easing adoption. -Aligns with sustainability goals and fills a niche for natural alternatives to synthetics.
Technical Summary:
Transgenic cotton lines that produce composite fibers were developed using somatic embryogenesis, knock-in integration, and whole-plant regeneration. Verified single-copy homozygous lines were obtained. These composite fibers integrate natural crystalline cellulose with dragline silk proteins to improve strength and elasticity. The goal is to improve cotton fiber properties while retaining cotton as the underlying material type.
Advantages:
- Enhanced fiber strength, elasticity, and processability.
- Maintains cotton’s identity, easing adoption in existing markets.
Technology Overview
State of Development
TRL 4
Category
CURF Reference No.
2022-043
Inventors
Dr. Chris Saski
For More Info, Contact:
Pushparajah Thavarajah
Business Development Associate
E: pthavar@clemson.edu
P: (864) 207-2680
Contact
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