Scientists have decoded part of the DNA in spiderwebs, and think that they can create a substance as sticky for the good of medicine and science. Or to create a real-life Spider-Man. Whichever comes first.
New Scientist reports that a team of scientists at University of Wyoming in Laramie extracted messenger RNA from glue-secreting cells of the glands of golden orb-web spiders, and used them to identify the genes they believe are responsible for the creation of the super-sticky solution. Using this information, the team – led by Omer Choresh – hopes to create a synthetic adhesives for use in surgeries and other medical situations. Although, personally, I’m still pulling for that “web-shooters” option.
Sticky future for the spider suture [New Scientist]
