Design and Production of Chimeric Resilin-like Polypeptides (RLPs)

In this chapter, an overview of “engineered” chimeric polypeptides containing resilin sequences will be presented. Chimeric polypeptides contain sequences inspired by different proteins. They are appealing as biomaterials because their design relies on the aim to add physicochemical and biological functionalities to the polypeptide, obtaining tunable materials. Herein, emphasis will be devoted to the design strategy and the cloning strategy for the production of the recombinant polypeptides and their mechanical properties. Sequentially, the potential applications proposed for chimeric RLPs will be described. The last paragraph will be dedicated to future perspectives of chimeric polypeptides in the framework of biomimetic materials and biomaterials science, taking into account the principal advantages and the main critical drawbacks to be solved in the future. “A mingled monster, of no mortal kind; Behind, a dragon's fiery tail was spread; A goat's rough body bore a lion's head; Her pitchy nostrils flaky flames expire; Her gaping throat emits infernal fire….” Iliad, VI, (trad A. Pope)