Development of topical skin care products using silk materials produced on Amami Oshima Island
Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences
Advanced Therapeutics Course
Dermatological Science
Professor
KANEKURA Takuro
Background and objectives of activities
In recent years, efforts have been underway to revive sericulture, which has been a pillar of Japan's modernization, through the use of advanced technology. The government's support for this effort has been as a "sericulture revolution. Silk has been shown to promote wound healing, and GM silk has been shown to be even more effective and non-toxic. Based on these results, we aim to develop topical agents that heal wounds quickly and cleanly.
Summary of Activities
Kagoshima Prefecture's representative silk product is Oshima Tumugi. However, with changes in lifestyle, both production and consumption have declined, and the silk industry on Amami Oshima Ilands has stagnated. This study will be conducted jointly with ADAN Corporation, which manufactures and sells silk cosmetics in Amami City. The silkworms and their feed, mulberry, are produced on Amami Oshima. The project will also create an industrial cycle from mulberry cultivation and sericulture to the production of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Expected Benefits
Promoting the development of topical products that promote wound healing will contribute to healthy lifestyles. It will also promote employment and contribute to economic development by creating a new industry in the Amami Oshima region.