Genetically engineered silk-elastinlike protein polymers for controlled drug delivery

The silk-elastinlike class of genetically engineered protein polymers is composed of tandemly repeated silk-like (Gly–Ala–Gly–Ala–Gly–Ser) and elastin-like (Gly–Val–Gly–Val–Pro) amino acid blocks. The precision with which these polymers can be synthesized, as well as the ability to incorporate motifs that allow for gel-formation, stimuli-sensitivity, biodegradation, and biorecognition have stimulated interest in their use for controlled drug and gene delivery. This review will focus on the synthesis and characterization of silk-elastinlike polymers as related to controlled drug delivery. The design and biological synthesis of the copolymers, by recombinant DNA techniques, are reviewed. The characterization of the polymers is discussed. Finally, biocompatibility of the polymers and recent studies to determine their potential utility for controlled drug and gene delivery are reviewed.