Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Sericin in Tissue Regeneration and Wound Healing

Abstract

Chronic wounds remain a major clinical challenge due to persistent inflammation, impaired angiogenesis, microbial infection, and delayed re-epithelialization, all of which disrupt the normal healing cascade. The increasing global prevalence of chronic wounds highlights the urgent need for safe, effective, and biologically active therapeutic materials. In this context, sericin, a natural hydrophilic protein derived from silkworm cocoons, has emerged as a promising biomaterial for regenerative applications. Owing to its excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, low immunogenicity, antioxidant capacity, and strong affinity for biomolecules, sericin offers multifunctional benefits that directly address the pathological factors underlying impaired wound healing. This study explores the therapeutic potential of sericin in tissue regeneration and wound healing by examining its biological activities and mechanisms of action. Sericin enhances fibroblast and keratinocyte proliferation, promotes collagen synthesis, supports re-epithelialization, and modulates inflammatory responses through the regulation of cytokine release and macrophage activation. Furthermore, its incorporation into advanced wound dressings and nanotechnology-based delivery systems, including sericin nanoparticles and composite hydrogels, demonstrates improved healing efficiency and controlled therapeutic action. Collectively, the findings highlight sericin as a sustainable and bioactive candidate for developing next-generation regenerative therapies and chronic wound management strategies.