Why Can't We Make Spider Silk?

The video explores the potential uses and challenges of producing spider silk, a material stronger and more versatile than silkworm silk. Despite its promising applications in various fields, mass production of spider silk is difficult due to the territorial nature of spiders and the complexity of replicating their silk-making process. Current research includes genetic engineering and fermentation processes, but practical mass production remains elusive.

What makes spider silk more desirable than silkworm silk?

• It is stronger and more versatile.

• It is cheaper to manufacture.

• It is easier to produce.

• It is more colorful.

Why is it difficult to farm spiders for silk production?

• Spiders produce too much silk.

• Spiders are social animals.

• Spiders require a lot of space and are territorial.

• Spiders do not produce silk.

What is the main challenge in replicating the spider's silk production process?

• Finding enough spiders.

• Understanding the spidroin-encoding genes.

• Creating colorful silk.

• Making silk without proteins.

Which organism was genetically engineered to produce spider silk protein in its milk?

• Cows

• Chickens

• Pigs

• Dairy goats

What is a major hurdle in mass-producing spider silk?

• Excessive production of silk.

• Lack of interest in spider silk products.

• Inability to stabilize the silk.

• High cost and limited production.