Headline: UK Start-up Uses Spider Silk to Repair Human Nerve Damage in Medical First
- Mar 13
- 1 min read
Date: 13 March 2026
Tags: Health, Science, UK
Summary:
A British start-up has used spider silk to repair damaged human nerves in a medical trial.
The procedure was developed by Newrotex, founded by surgeon Dr Alex Woods.
Five patients with severe leg nerve injuries were treated using silk strands as scaffolding.
All participants regained sensation in previously numb areas after surgery.
One patient also recovered movement and was able to walk again.
Spider silk strands were threaded through a tube made from the patient’s own vein.
The silk supports nerve regrowth and gradually dissolves after healing.
The silk is produced by golden orb-web spiders raised in laboratory conditions.
Researchers say the material is strong, flexible and causes minimal immune reaction.
Larger clinical trials are planned before potential regulatory approval.
What’s next: Researchers plan expanded trials in the UK and US, with possible clinical use targeted by 2028 if results continue to be successful.
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