Abstract: Provided herein relates to methods for preparing micron range silk fibers (or silk microfibers) and compositions comprising a micron range silk fiber (or a silk microfiber). The micron range silk fibers (or silk microfibers) can be used in various applications ranging from fillers in cosmetics to reinforcement materials to design high strength composites, e.g., reinforced scaffolds. In some embodiments, the silk microfiber-reinforced scaffolds can be used for bone graft applications because of their high compressive strength.

Abstract: Provided herein relates to methods for preparing micron range silk fibers (or silk microfibers) and compositions comprising a micron range silk fiber (or a silk microfiber). The micron range silk fibers (or silk microfibers) can be used in various applications ranging from fillers in cosmetics to reinforcement materials to design high strength composites, e.g., reinforced scaffolds. In some embodiments, the silk microfiber-reinforced scaffolds can be used for bone graft applications because of their high compressive strength.

Abstract: Provided herein is a biocompatible implant for meniscus tissue engineering. Particularly, the biocompatible implant comprises a multi-layered crescent-shaped silk fibroin scaffold, in which each layer comprises distinct pore size and/or pore orientation, e.g., to mimic native meniscus complex architecture. Accordingly, the biocompatible implant can be used for repairing any meniscal defect or promoting meniscal regeneration in a subject.

Abstract: Provided herein are implantable intervertebral disc devices, and methods of making the same. For example, an implantable intervertebral disc device comprises an engineered annulus fibrosus (AF) scaffold that can mimic its native-like cross alignment of pores/channels within the AF region, and can be served as a scaffolding material for cell and matrix alignment. Accordingly, methods of treating a disease or disorder associated with degeneration of an intervertebral disc in a subject are also provided herein, e.g., by replacing the degenerated intervertebral disc of the subject with an implantable intervertebral disc device described herein.

Abstract: Provided herein is a biocompatible implant for meniscus tissue engineering. Particularly, the biocompatible implant comprises a multi-layered crescent-shaped silk fibroin scaffold, in which each layer comprises distinct pore size and/or pore orientation, e.g., to mimic native meniscus complex architecture. Accordingly, the biocompatible implant can be used for repairing any meniscal defect or promoting meniscal regeneration in a subject.