10,000 ways Jan Rainey is untangling the mysteries of spider silks

The Dalhousie University researcher is looking to create synthetic versions of spider's silk that have the potential to help heal damaged nerves and damaged hearts. Researcher Jan Rainey’s curiosity about synthetic fibres began during an undergraduate work term with DuPont. Years later, he heard stories from a fellow researcher that alluded to the amazing properties of spider’s silk. Now he's studying the unique characteristics of spider fibres in hopes of generating synthetic versions that are stronger than bullet-proof Kevlar and body restorative. Drop in, stick around and get trapped in a great science story from a cutting-edge bio-lab. Want to know more? • Jan Rainey’s biography from Dalhousie University • Learn about the fascinating history of Lycra • Explore the history of a most extraordinary textile fibre, spider silk • Cicada recording courtesy of Songofinsects.com

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10,000 ways Jan Rainey is untangling the mysteries of spider silks is an episode from Canada Foundation for Innovation by Canada Foundation for Innovation.

This episode is 0:24:26 long.

This episode was published on May 20, 2025.

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