Wound Healing Potential and Characterization of Sericin from Eri Silkworm (Samia cynthia ricini)

Eri silkworm sericin is isolated from the cocoon of the silkworm Samia cynthia ricini, which has been widely cultivated in Indonesia due to its adaptability to high temperatures and abundant food sources. Sericin was reported to have numerous health benefits, including antibacterial, antioxidant capacity, and wound healing. Meanwhile, inflammation is considered a critical phase in the process of wound healing and it is associated with oxidative stress conditions, which will further prolong the process. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the potential uses of sericin from Eri silkworms, assessing the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties. The ABTS and albumin denaturation methods were used to evaluate the antioxidant and anti- inflammatory activity. The wound-healing activity of Eri silkworm sericin hydrogel film was evaluated in vivo. Eri silkworm sericin was characterized based on protein, and total phenol content, as well as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The result showed that the IC50 value antioxidant capacity and anti- inflammatory activity of Eri silkworm sericin were 71.957 ± 0.981 mg/L and 145.708 ± 5.082 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, Eri silkworm sericin hydrogel film (HSE) at a dose of 750 mg showed the most potential in wound healing, with a duration of 9 days. The result of this study also showed that Eri silkworm sericin hydrogel film (HSE) has the potential for applications in wound dressings.