Muga Silk: A Review on its Structural, Physical, and Biomedical Significance

Abstract

Muga silk, secreted by the semi-domesticated silkworm Antheraea assamensis, is a unique natural fiber indigenous to northeastern India, renowned for its golden luster, exceptional durability, and regional exclusivity. As global demand grows for sustainable and high-performance biomaterials, Muga silk is emerging as a promising alternative to the extensively studied Bombyx mori silk. This review critically examines the structural, physicochemical, and thermal characteristics of Muga silk, with emphasis on its molecular organization, fibroin crystallinity, and surface morphology. Comparative analysis with mulberry, tasar, and eri silks highlights superior thermal stability (>300 °C), mechanical strength (up to 7.5 MPa), and biocompatibility of muga silk, making it suitable for biomedical applications such as scaffolds, wound dressings, and composite biomaterials. Additionally, this review discusses the influence of environmental factors—seasonality, host plant variability, and regional microclimate—on cocoon quality and silk yield. Despite its advantages, Muga silk faces significant challenge including limited geographical adaptability, processing difficulties, and lack of standardized biomaterial fabrication protocols. Future research must focus on molecular-level characterization, host plant management, climate-resilient sericulture, and scalable silk fibroin extraction methods. With interdisciplinary collaboration and targeted innovation, Muga silk can transcend its traditional textile niche and evolve into a globally relevant, sustainable biomaterial for next-generation biomedical and industrial applications.